ExplorePlants

Deadly Nightshade

Atropa bella-donna

Deadly Nightshade is a beautiful plant with purple flowers and shiny black berries. But be careful! It's very poisonous and not safe to touch or eat.

Habitat: Forests

Appearance

The Deadly Nightshade has dull green, oval leaves and bell-shaped, purplish-brown flowers that hang downwards. Its most striking feature are the glossy, cherry-sized black berries, which appear jewel-like but are extremely dangerous.

KingdomPlantaePhylumTracheophytaClassMagnoliopsidaOrderSolanalesFamilySolanaceaeGenusAtropa
Deadly Nightshade
deciduous trait badgeflowering trait badgeshade_tolerant trait badgemedicinal trait badge
Deadly Nightshade

Category

Plants

Rarity

Rare

Danger

5/5 · Extreme

Snaps

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Interesting facts

Ancient cultures used nightshade in potions for its mind-altering effects!

Despite its danger, extracts from this plant are used in modern medicine!

Its scientific name 'Atropa' comes from the Greek goddess of fate who cut the thread of life.

Just a few berries can be fatal to a child. Never touch them!

Special abilities

Ability

Potent Protector

Deadly Nightshade creates powerful toxic compounds, like atropine, which deter most animals from eating its leaves and berries.

Ability

Bird Broadcaster

While deadly to humans, some birds can eat its berries without harm, helping to spread its seeds to new locations.

Ability

Resilient Root

Deadly Nightshade has a strong perennial rootstock, allowing it to regrow year after year even if its upper parts are damaged.

Measurements & details

Height
50-150 cm
Spread
50-100 cm
Flower Size
2-3 cm
Bloom Season
Summer
Edible
No
Toxicity
Deadly
Lifecycle
Perennial
Pollination Method
Insect

Ecological connections

Traits

Also known as

Belladonna

Collections

Safety

Danger

5/5 · Extreme

Never touch or eat any part of this plant. Always ask an adult if you're unsure.

Frequently Asked Questions

How tall is Deadly Nightshade?

50-150 cm

How wide does Deadly Nightshade spread?

50-100 cm

How big are the flowers on Deadly Nightshade?

2-3 cm

When does Deadly Nightshade bloom?

Summer

Is Deadly Nightshade edible?

No

Is Deadly Nightshade toxic?

Deadly

What is Deadly Nightshade's lifecycle?

Perennial

How is Deadly Nightshade pollinated?

Insect

Snap Map

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