Solanum carolinense

Solanum carolinense, commonly known as the Carolina horsenettle, is a species of flowering plant in the nightshade family. It is native to the southeastern United States, but has spread widely throughout North America. Despite its common name, it is not a true nettle, but a member of the Solanaceae, or nightshade family.

Description

Solanum carolinense is a perennial herbaceous plant that grows between 0.5 and 1 meter tall. Its leaves are alternate, elliptical to lanceolate, and have wavy margins with spiny edges. The flowers are white to purple and have five petals. The fruit is a smooth, round berry that turns yellow when ripe.

Distribution and habitat

The Carolina horsenettle is native to the southeastern United States, but has spread to other parts of North America, as well as to South America, Europe, Asia, and Australia. It is typically found in disturbed habitats, such as roadsides, pastures, and agricultural fields.

Ecology

Solanum carolinense is a host plant for several species of Lepidoptera, including the Carolina sphinx moth. Its berries are eaten by various species of birds, which disperse the seeds.

Uses

While the plant is toxic to humans and most livestock, some animals, such as pigs and goats, can eat it without ill effects. In traditional medicine, the plant has been used to treat a variety of ailments, although its use is not recommended due to its toxicity.

Toxicity

All parts of the plant, especially the unripe berries, contain solanine, a toxic alkaloid. Symptoms of poisoning include abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, and in severe cases, respiratory failure and death.

Control

Control of Solanum carolinense can be difficult due to its deep root system and its ability to regrow from root fragments. Mechanical control methods, such as mowing or hand-pulling, are often ineffective. Chemical control with herbicides is more effective, but can also harm non-target plants.

See also

• Solanum
• Invasive species

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