Erect, foul-smelling annual herb < 2 m tall. Stems are stout, smooth and green to reddish. Leaves are broad, toothed and alternate. Flowers are large, white, trumpet-shaped and borne in November – April. Fruits are egg-shaped, usually spiny, four-chambered and contain flat, kidney-shaped seeds.
Although thornapple is not a legally declared pest plant, it may still be invasive in some situations. Consider lower risk alternatives for your garden, such as native plants.
Disturbed sites, riparian margins, pasture, gardens, wasteland, roadsides.
Seeds dispersed by birds, gravity and attachment to animal coats.
Reduces crop yield. Toxic to humans and animals.
Follow up treated areas each year. Encourage natural regeneration of native plants or replant treated areas where possible after 2-3 treatments to establish dense ground cover and minimise reinvasion. Other herbicides are available for selective use in pasture.
CAUTION: When using any herbicide or pesticide please read the label thoroughly to ensure that all instructions and safety requirements are followed.
