PLANTS



The Sacred Datura is also known as 'Jimson Weed' and 'Georgia O'Keefe's Flower.' It is open early in the morning, and closes by midday. It grows as a weed in New Mexico and the Desert Southwest, but it is also cultivated for its beauty.


Sacred Datura
Datura




Sacred Datura is poisonous, and has killed cattle, other animals, and humans. Some Native American groups have used a tea made of Sacred Datura to induce religious hallucinations. The hallucenogenic -- and poisonous -- properties are due to the belladonna ("beautiful flower") alkaloids contained in various parts. Belladonna alkaloids are also used in pharmaceuticals of Western medicine.

Pods and Seeds of Datura
Datura Pods and Seeds





All content and photographs ©2008 by Susan Brandt Graham