PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; tolerates intense desert sunlight but benefits from afternoon shade in extreme heat
Watering
Water deeply but infrequently; allow soil to dry completely between waterings to prevent root rot
Temperature
Thrives in warm, arid conditions; tolerates brief light frosts but not prolonged cold below 5°C
Characteristics
- Leaf: Large, ovate to triangular leaves with toothed margins; fuzzy, gray-green foliage
- Flower: Trumpet-shaped white to pale lavender blooms, 15–25 cm long, opening at dusk
- Stem: Stout, branching stems covered in fine, downy hairs
Care Guide
Watering
Water deeply once every 7–10 days; avoid overwatering
Fertilization
Diluted low-nitrogen feed once monthly. Avoid over-fertilizing, as excess nitrogen can reduce flowering
Eggshell powder topdressing：Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle lightly on soil surface to boost calcium levels and deter blossom end rotPruning
- Remove spent blooms to encourage additional flowering
- Trim back leggy stems in early spring to promote compact growth
- Remove dead or diseased foliage to improve airflow and reduce pest risk
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Toxic; ingestion causes dilated pupils, tremors, seizures, and respiratory failure
Humans: Contains tropane alkaloids (scopolamine, hyoscyamine); ingestion causes hallucinations, delirium, and potentially fatal respiratory depression
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: Historically used in Indigenous American spiritual ceremonies; associated with night and transformation
Usage: Ornamental desert garden plant; caution advised due to toxicity
