Description
Duboisia hopwoodii, commonly known as Pituri, is a native desert shrub used by indigenous people as a stimulant and ritual herb. Indigenous Australians mix the dried leaves of a small population of D. hopwoodii growing around the Mulligan River with wood ash to make a variety of pituri, the traditional Aboriginal chewing mixture. D. hopwoodii plants from this region are high in nicotine and low in nornicotine, whereas those found in some other parts of Australia can have very high levels of nornicotine and are sometimes used to contaminate water holes and stun animals to help in hunting.
Duboisia hopwoodii grows up to 1-3m in height in an erect fashion and produces small white flowers and long narrow leaves. It prefers a full sun position with well draining soil. Usually grows in red or yellow sand or sandy loam, on sandy plains, low dunes or sandy rises.
Seeds are not permitted to be collected from the Mulligan River area, our seeds have been collected from other populated areas in SA.
Approx. 500 seeds per gram.
Common Name: Pituri Bush; Pitchuri; Bedgerie; Camel Poison; Emu Plant; Pitchiri; Poison Bush.
Germination Tips: A notoriously difficult germinator. Seeds can benefit greatly from soaking in GA3 (Gibberellic acid) concentrate from 1000-2000ppm before sowing. This overcomes the physiological dormancy of this species.  Alternatives to GA3 include;
1. Seed Preparation (Scarification & Soaking)
Scarify the Seeds: Lightly sand the seed coat with fine sandpaper or rub it with a file to help water absorption.
Hot Water Treatment: Soak the seeds in warm (not boiling) water for 12-24 hours to soften the outer coat.
Smokewater Treatment (Optional): Some native Australian plants benefit from exposure to smoke, which helps break dormancy. You can soak the seeds in commercial smoke water for 24 hours before planting.
2. Planting the Seeds
Use well-draining soil, such as a sandy or loamy mix with perlite.
Plant seeds ¼ inch (5 mm) deep in moist soil.
Keep soil slightly damp but not waterlogged.
3. Ideal Germination Conditions
Temperature: 70-85°F (21-29°C). Use a heat mat if necessary.
Light: Provide bright, indirect light or partial sun.
Humidity: Cover with a humidity dome or plastic wrap to maintain moisture.
 4. Germination Time
Duboisia hopwoodii has slow and variable germination, often taking 4-12 weeks or longer.
Be patient and keep soil conditions stable.
 5. Transplanting & Care
Once seedlings are 2-3 inches (5-7 cm) tall, transplant them into larger pots with well-draining soil.
Keep in full sun to partial shade and water sparingly.
The plant is drought-tolerant once established, so avoid overwatering.
Our Guarantee
We personally count every seed packet to ensure it contains at least the specified number of seeds. However, mistakes can happen, so please reach out if you notice any inconsistencies.
These seeds are believed to meet the standard viability percentage for their species, sourced either from our own SAB nursery or from reputable, trusted breeders.
Do not hesitate to contact us for up-to-date germination rates or for a germination test to be conducted.
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