This is a Datura (Jimsonweed, Sacred Datura) plant seed pod. The plant is a member of the Nightshade family. In the Fall it produces large white flowers. Members of this family typically contain organic compounds that range from beneficial to toxic. Compounds in sacred datura are psychedelic, and the plant was important to native Americans in their sacred ceremonies. However, if misused, these same compounds are fatal. The flowers were used to create hallucinagens for shamanic ceremonies and as a pain alleviant.
There are multiple examples of both the flower and the seed pods being depicted in Sinagua pre-historic pictographs in the Verde Valley.
This model is part of a project to depict natural and manmade materials that played significant roles in local pre-historic cultures. This example is almost 3 cm in circumfrance.
Information about volunteer opportunities in the Coconino Forest including the creation of the 3D models and other projects can be found at
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