Wildflower - Horsenettle

The Horsenettle (Solanum carolinense) is starting to bloom in some of the hay fields near our barn. Horsenettle is not related to true nettles, but this native plant is a member of the nightshade family (Solanaceae), which includes tomatoes, and potatoes.



Like other members of the nightshade family, the horsenettle flower is star-like with yellow centers. The flowers are 1 inch wide and can have white or pale lavender flowers. It's not uncommon to find both color flowers on the same stem.



While the horsenettle flowers are interesting to look at there are several reasons to be careful with this plant. There are the hard spines along the stems that can penetrate the skin and break off (known from personal experience). Most parts of the plant are poisonous to varying degrees due to the presence of solanine which is a toxic alkaloid and one of the plant's natural defenses.



Close-up views of the flower.