Black nightshade

Black Nightshade (Solanum nigrum) is a species of flowering plant in the family Solanaceae. It is native to Eurasia and introduced in the Americas, Australasia, and South Africa. Parts of this plant can be toxic to livestock and humans, and it is considered a weed.

Description

Black Nightshade is an annual or perennial herbaceous plant that grows up to 1 m tall. The leaves are alternate, simple, and ovate, with a wavy or lobed margin. The flowers are small with white petals and yellow stamens, and are grouped in loose clusters. The fruit is a round berry, initially green and turning black when ripe.

Distribution and habitat

Black Nightshade is native to Eurasia and has been introduced to the Americas, Australasia, and South Africa. It is commonly found in disturbed habitats, including fields, pastures, and roadsides.

Uses

Despite its toxicity, Black Nightshade has been used in traditional medicine. The ripe berries and boiled leaves are used as food in some cultures, but the plant is not generally considered edible.

Toxicity

All parts of the plant can be toxic. The unripe berries and leaves contain the toxic alkaloids solanine and solasonine, which can cause symptoms if ingested, such as nausea, vomiting, and neurological effects like dizziness and confusion.

Control

Control of Black Nightshade is important in agricultural areas, where it can be a significant weed. Methods of control include hand-pulling, ploughing, and the use of herbicides.

See also

• Solanaceae
• Solanum
• Weed control

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