Thornapples (Datura spp)
Thrornapple with fruit
Thornapples are declared a Class A (to be eradicated) and Class C (not to be introduced to the Northern Territory) weed in accordance with the NT Weeds Management Act 2001.
Thrornapple has been used historically for medicinal purposes, and is still cultivated as an ornamental in the Americas. Fruits contain alkaloids which are potentially toxic, with pig, horse, poultry and human fatalities having been recorded. Toxicity to stock is variable however, as cattle appear to eat it without suffering ill effects.
Seeds are most commonly spread in grain and fodder and by vehicles and other machinery. They may remain dormant for extended periods, and have been known to germinate after being buried for up to 20 years.
Thornapples are native to Central and South America and Mexico, and are also known to occur in Asia and North Africa. They were originally introduced into Australia as ornamental plants, subsequent spread has resulted in small infestations occurring in the Katherine, Victoria River, Gulf and Barkly districts. Thornapples prefer disturbed sites and fertile soils such as stock camps, around bores, stockyards and stables and along riverbanks.
