National Parks are full of dangers, from hazardous terrain to potentially agressive wildlife. But Texas’s Big Bend National Park has issued a PSA in reference to a particularly unique type of danger: the poisonous and hallucinogenic Sacred Datura plant.
The announcement came in the form of a weekly spotlight on the species. The Sacred Datura is a rather pretty plant, with striking white blooms that open under the cooler cover of night. Catching one in the day is a rare and special occasion.
But with their beauty comes a real danger. According to the Arizona Native Plant Society, the Sacred Datura is highly toxic when ingested by animals and humans. Consumption of the plant can lead to blindness, lethargy, sweating, and dry mouth, and those who survive usually face damage to their lungs, stomach, intestines, kidneys, and/or heart.
In small doses, however, the Sacred Datura has been used as a hallucinogenic. Shamans and cultures worldwide have used all species of Datura as sacred visionary plants, with the Sacred Datura supposedly boosting sensory perceptions, thought processes, and energy levels. Evidence shows that the plant has been used by humans in the Southwest for at least 3,000 years.
Big Bend National Park on the Sacred Datura:
The Chihuahuan Desert of Big Bend National Park is no walk in the park (well, maybe literally). Survival here demands resilience, toughness, and the ability to thrive in extreme heat and chilly winters. But who says you can’t do it with style? Enter this week’s spotlight species: Sacred Datura (Datura wrightii).
These striking white blooms grace the desert’s disturbed areas, opening under the cooler cover of night. Catching one in the daylight? That’s a rare and special treat!
Heads up: While Sacred Datura is stunning, it’s also highly poisonous. Every part of this plant packs a punch, so admire its beauty from a safe distance.
So next time you visit us at Big Bend National Park, remember to just enjoy the view, and not the taste of this spotlight species.
