Black Henbane
ExplorePlants
Black Henbane
hyoscyamus niger
Black Henbane is a fascinating plant with large, hairy leaves and beautiful purple flowers. It often grows in sunny fields and has a unique smell that can be quite strong!
Habitat: Black Henbane typically grows in sunny, open areas like fields and roadsides.
Appearance
The Black Henbane has dull green, hairy, sticky leaves. Its funnel-shaped flowers are yellowish-purple with prominent dark purple veins, making them quite distinctive.
KingdomPlantaePhylumTracheophytaClassMagnoliopsidaOrderSolanalesFamilySolanaceaeGenusHyoscyamus
Category
PlantsRarity
Common
Danger
3/5 · Moderate
Snaps
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Interesting facts
Even touching the plant can cause skin irritation in some sensitive people.
Historically, it was used to put people to sleep before ancient surgeries!
Its name "henbane" likely means "death to hens" due to its poison.
This plant was once a common ingredient in medieval "witch's brews."
Special abilities
Ability
Sticky Protector
Black Henbane has glandular hairs that make it sticky, helping it deter hungry insects and other herbivores.
Ability
Toxic Shield
Black Henbane produces powerful toxic alkaloids that make it deadly to eat, protecting it from most animals.
Ability
Sleepy Seeds
Black Henbane seeds can remain dormant in the soil for many decades, waiting for the perfect time to sprout.
Measurements & details
- Height
- 30-150 cm
- Spread
- 30-60 cm
- Flower Size
- 2-3 cm
- Bloom Season
- Summer
- Edible
- No
- Toxicity
- Deadly
- Lifecycle
- Biennial
- Pollination Method
- Insect
Ecological connections
pollinates
Honey bee
Apis mellifera
Attracted to the flowers for nectar
pollinates
Buff-tailed bumblebee
Bombus terrestris
Visits flowers for nectar and pollen
pollinates
Drone fly
Eristalis tenax
A common fly pollinator for its blooms
Traits
Colorful
Colorful describes organisms or objects displaying a wide range of bright and distinct colors.
Herbivorous
This trait characterizes organisms whose diet consists entirely or primarily of plant material.
Forest
Forest habitats are terrestrial environments dominated by dense tree cover, supporting a high diversity of plant and animal life.
Pollinator
Describes organisms that transfer pollen, enabling the fertilization and reproduction of plants.
Also known as
Black HelleboreCommon HenbaneHenbaneStinking Nightshade
Collections
Safety
Danger
3/5 · Moderate
This plant can be toxic if ingested, so it's best to look and not touch!
Frequently Asked Questions
How tall is Black Henbane?
30-150 cm
How wide does Black Henbane spread?
30-60 cm
How big are the flowers on Black Henbane?
2-3 cm
When does Black Henbane bloom?
Summer
Is Black Henbane edible?
No
Is Black Henbane toxic?
Deadly
What is Black Henbane's lifecycle?
Biennial
How is Black Henbane pollinated?
Insect
Snap Map
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