Solanum dulcamara (Common Nightshade) Solanaceae

This invasive, non-native weed is known by many names such as “Climbing Nightshade”, “Woody Nightshade”, and “Bitter Nightshade”. It is a semi-woody shrub that can also act as a vine that uses other plants and objects to support itself. 

Physical characteristics

 Image by Sydney Fletcher

Leaf: The leaves are usually between 4 and 12 centimeters long and grow alternately on the stem. They are lobed at the base which gives them an arrowhead shape.

Flower | Seeds: The flowers are less than an inch across with bright purple petals and a showy yellow style. The petals have two white dots at the base and are flexed back toward the stem.

Trunk | Bark: This is a mostly herbaceous plant, but it is semi-woody which allows it to be a perennial.

Fruit: The fruits are green berries that turn yellow and red as they mature. They contain solanine, an alkaloid glycoside which increases bodily secretions and leads to vomiting and convulsions.The berries are bitter which discourages most creatures from eating them. (Source)

Life span: These plants can live for many years. Because they are partially woody each winter the plant’s branches die back to the base and grow back in the spring

 

Ecological characteristics