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PLANT SPECIES SUMMARY PAGE

Solanum nigrum - Black Nightshade:

Summary Information
Taxonomic Classification Animalia / Plantae / Anthophyta / Family - Solanaceae / Solanum / Species:

(Classification of plants is an evolving discipline. The information in Wildpro has been carefully referenced to the source material, as far as possible. Readers requiring further clarification should consult the source materials and more recent publications. Classification information in Wildpro will be altered when clear and scientifically endorsed new information regarding taxonomic divisions becomes available to us.

This section is currently predominantly used in Wildpro to link different data types and demonstrate inter-relationships. It does not contain detailed information on the plant species itself.)
Alternative Names Garden nightshade. (Known as "Deadly nightshade" in some parts of the USA although this more commonly refers to the plant species Atropa belladonna)
Monocotyledenous / Dicotyledenous Dicotyledon
Duration Annual / Perennial
Notes
  • The whole plant contains various glycoalkaloids, including Solanine and Solanidin. The highest concentrations of these are found in the unripe green berries and the lowest levels are found in the roots; this has led to varying reports on its toxicity.
  • It seems to be less poisonous in silage.
  • The toxic effects may be potentiated by nitrates in the plant.

(B102.40.w1, B103).

  • It is listed as an invasive plant in the "State noxious weed lists for 35 states". (W1.May00)
Associated Waterfowl Diseases Nightshade Poisoning (Black Nightshade Poisoning, Garden Nightshade Poisoning, Deadly Nightshade Poisoning) Waterfowl Disease Summary Incoordination, prostration, paralysis and death. Dilated pupils may be a clinical sign. (B102.40.w1).
Waterfowl in which the DISEASE has been recorded (NOT necessarily this specific organism) "Ducks" - species not specified.

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