silverleaf nightshade
(Solanum elaeagnifolium Cavanaugh)

Overview

Appearance

Solanum elaeagnifolium is a perennial shrub that can grow up to 3 ft. (0.9 m) tall.

Foliage

Leaves are 1-3.9 in. (2.5-10 cm) long and narrow with wavy margins. The leaves and stems are covered in with dense, fine, white hairs giving it a silvery appearance.

Flowers

Flowers are bright blue to purple in color and occasionally white, star-shaped, 5 petals, and 0.8-1.6 in. (20-40 mm) in diameter. Blooming occurs from spring to autumn.

Fruit

Fruits are berries found in clusters that are round, 0.4-0.6 in. (10-15 mm) in diameter, and orange-yellow at maturity. Each fruit contains 60-120 greenish-brown, smooth, 0.12 in. (3 mm) in diameter seeds. Fruits are said to be poisonous, especially to livestock.

Ecological Threat

S. elaeagnifolium can be found in meadows, pastures, and plains. It is native to all U.S. states except Hawaii, Alaska, all north eastern states except Maryland, and all states north of Nebraska except Washington, Oregon, and Idaho. This plant can be toxic. Always wear gloves and protective clothing when handling this plant.

Selected Images

Maps

Invasive Listing Sources

• California Noxious Weeds
• Hawaii Noxious Weeds
• Michigan Noxious Weeds
• Nevada Noxious Weeds
• New Invaders of the Northwest
• Oregon Noxious Weeds
• Pacific Northwest Exotic Pest Plant Council, 1998
• Washington Noxious Weeds

References