Jimsonweed facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Thorn apple / Jimson weed |
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Datura
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D. stramonium
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| Datura stramonium |
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Datura stramonium, often called jimson weed or thorn apple, is a tall plant that grows every year. It can reach a height of 30 to 150 centimeters (1 to 5 feet). This plant has strong, branching stems that are sometimes purple. Its leaves are quite large, about 7 to 20 centimeters (3 to 8 inches) long, and have uneven edges.
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About Jimson Weed
Jimson weed is a fascinating plant found in many parts of the world. It's known by several common names, including "ditch weed," "angel's trumpet," and "devil's trumpet." These names often describe its unique appearance.
What Does It Look Like?
The flowers of the jimson weed are shaped like trumpets. They can be white or purple and grow to be 2 to 7 inches long. After the flowers, the plant produces interesting fruit. These fruits are about the size of a walnut and are egg-shaped. They are covered in sharp prickles, which is why it's sometimes called "thorn apple."
When the fruit is ripe, it splits open into four sections. Each section holds many small, black seeds.
Where Does It Grow?
Jimson weed is a very adaptable plant. It can be found growing in many different places around the world. It often grows in disturbed areas like ditches, fields, and along roadsides. This plant is native to North America, but it has spread to many other continents. You might find it in Mexico or even in parts of Asia.
Is It Safe?
It is very important to know that Datura stramonium is a plant that can be harmful. All parts of the plant, including its leaves, flowers, and especially its seeds, contain natural chemicals that can be dangerous if eaten. Because of this, it's best to admire jimson weed from a distance and never touch or taste any part of it. If you see this plant, remember to keep your hands away and tell an adult.
How Does It Reproduce?
Jimson weed reproduces using its seeds. After the flowers bloom and are pollinated, they develop into the prickly fruit. Inside these fruits, the plant produces many small seeds. When the fruit ripens, it opens up, releasing these seeds. The seeds then fall to the ground or are spread by wind or animals. This allows new jimson weed plants to grow in the next season. This life cycle helps the plant spread widely in its environment.
Interesting Facts
Historically, some cultures have used parts of the jimson weed plant for traditional purposes. For example, some Native American groups and traditional Chinese medicine practices have used it. However, these uses were very specific and often involved careful preparation due to the plant's powerful nature. It's a plant with a long history, but its use is not recommended today due to safety concerns.
Images for kids
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Mature (left) and immature (right) seed capsules
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D. stramonium var. tatula, flower (front)
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Seed capsule, showing dehiscence of the four valves to release seeds
See also
In Spanish: Estramonio para niños
