Family: Solanaceae
eastern black nightshade, West Indian nightshade
Christopher Noll
University of Wisconsin - Madison (WIS-VP)
Etymology: Solanum: Latin for "quieting," in reference to the narcotic properties of some species
Plants: erect, annual, 6"-24" tall, branched, mostly smooth forb
Leaves: stalked, large and often with irregular, blunt teeth
Flowers: white to lavender, 5-parted, 1/4"-1/3" wide, saucer-shaped; inflorescence an umbel-like, tight cluster; blooms June-Oct.
Fruits: black, 1/4" berry
Habitat: disturbed sites
Hazardous: Careful, this plant is hazardous!
Conservation Status: Native
Plants: erect, annual, 6"-24" tall, branched, mostly smooth forb
Leaves: stalked, large and often with irregular, blunt teeth
Flowers: white to lavender, 5-parted, 1/4"-1/3" wide, saucer-shaped; inflorescence an umbel-like, tight cluster; blooms June-Oct.
Fruits: black, 1/4" berry
Habitat: disturbed sites
Hazardous: Careful, this plant is hazardous!
Conservation Status: Native
Floristic Rating: Coefficient of Conservatism = 1, Wetland Indicator = FACU- USDA Plants Database: Federal Distribution and detailed information including photos Illinois Wildflowers: Wonderful photographs; detailed descriptions; color and leaf arrangement key
Christopher Noll
Stephen L. Solheim
Merel R. Black
Stephen L. Solheim
Botanical Illustration
Merel R. Black
