Definition

Noun: 1. A plant of the genus Datura: "Thorn apple" refers to any of several species of coarse, rank-smelling herbs, shrubs, or small trees belonging to the nightshade family (Solanaceae). These plants are characterized by their large, trumpet-shaped flowers and spiny seed capsules. 2. The spiny fruit of such a plant: The name also refers to the distinctive, round, and often prickly seed pod produced by these plants.

Usage and Examples

• Referring to the plant:
  • The field was overgrown with thorn apple, its white flowers visible at dusk.
  • Farmers consider the thorn apple a toxic weed that can harm livestock.
• Referring to the fruit:
  • The children were warned not to touch the poisonous thorn apples on the ground.

Advanced Notes

• Toxicity: All parts of the thorn apple plant are highly poisonous due to the presence of potent tropane alkaloids (such as scopolamine and atropine). Ingestion can be fatal.
• Historical and Cultural Use: Despite its toxicity, some species have been used in traditional medicine and rituals for their hallucinogenic and deliriant properties. This usage is extremely dangerous and not recommended.

Variants and Related Words

• Datura: The scientific genus name for thorn apple plants. Often used interchangeably in botanical contexts.
• Jimsonweed (or Jamestown weed): A common name for one specific and widespread species, . This name originates from an incident in Jamestown, Virginia.
• Devil's trumpet: Another common name for plants in this genus, referring to the shape of the flowers.
• Angel's trumpet: A name sometimes used for related plants in the genus , which have similar, large, pendulous flowers but are woody shrubs or small trees.

Synonyms

• Jimsonweed (for )
• Stinkweed (descriptive of the plant's odor)
• Devil's weed

Important Note

There are no standard phrasal verbs or idioms associated directly with the term "thorn apple." It is primarily a botanical name.

Noun

1. any of several plants of the genus Datura