Datura Bloom At Archaeology Museum - 2017

Recent rains have caused Datura (Jimsonweed) plants on the Museum's grounds to bloom in El Paso,Texas..The Datura's white flower is arguably one of the most beautiful in nature. Modern artists such as the late Georgia O'Keeffe incorporated it in her paintings and ancient peoples of the Southwest also incorporated this flower and the plant's seed pod motifs in ceramic and petroglyph designs. The Datura is a sacred plant to many Native American groups who use it for ceremonial purposes due to potent hallucinogenic properties. Please note that all parts of this plant are highly toxic and can be harmful or fatal if ingested by those not experienced it its use.

Area: Northeast / Franklin Mountains

Source: El Paso Museum of Archaeology

Uploaded by: El Paso Museum of History