Deadly Nightshade (Atropa bella-donna)

Deadly Nightshade, also commonly known as belladonna, devil’s cherries, or beautiful death, is a fascinating yet potentially dangerous plant. Scientifically named Atropa belladonna, this member of the nightshade family (Solanaceae) contains potent tropane alkaloids, including atropine and scopolamine, which can cause severe anticholinergic effects. Understanding its characteristics is crucial for safety.

Gardencenterpoint.com is dedicated to providing gardeners and plant enthusiasts with the knowledge they need to navigate the world of plants, both beautiful and potentially hazardous. This guide offers comprehensive information on Atropa belladonna, including how to identify deadly nightshade, its effects, and deadly nightshade image/pictures for clear visual reference. We prioritize safety and responsible gardening practices.

1. Deadly Nightshade: A Detailed Description and Identification

Deadly Nightshade is a perennial herbaceous plant, meaning it lives for more than two years and has non-woody stems. It often grows in shady, moist areas, particularly in woodlands, thickets, and disturbed ground. Its native range includes Europe, North Africa, and Western Asia, but it has been introduced to other parts of the world, including North America.

Common Names	Deadly Nightshade, Belladonna, Devil’s Cherries, Beautiful Death, Dwale
Botanical Name	Atropa belladonna
Family	Solanaceae (Nightshade Family)
Genus	Atropa
Species	belladonna
Origin	Europe, North Africa, Western Asia
Native	Europe, North Africa, Western Asia Introduced North America, and other temperate zones
Life Cycle	Perennial
Plant Type	Herbaceous
Hardiness Zones	5-9 (USDA)
Sunlight	Partial Shade, Shade
Maintenance	Low (but removal requires caution)
Water	Moderate
Drainage	Well-Drained
Soil pH	Neutral to slightly alkaline
Spacing	1-2 feet (30-60 cm) apart
Flowering Period	Mid-Summer to Early Fall (June-September in Northern Hemisphere)
Height	1-1.5 meters (3-5 feet), up to 2 meters (6.5 feet)
Growth Rate	Moderate to Fast
Flower Color	Dull Purple, Reddish-Purple with Greenish Veins
Flower Shape	Bell-shaped
Berry Color	Shiny Black
Berry Size	1-1.5 cm (0.4-0.6 inches) diameter
Leaf Color	Dark Green, sometimes with a purplish tinge
Leaf Shape	Ovate, Smooth Edges
Stem Color	Green, sometimes with a purplish tinge
Stem texture	Smooth or very slightly hairy
Root Type	Thick, Fleshy, Branching
Toxicity	Highly Toxic (all parts of the plant)
Garden Style	Not Recommended for Gardens (due to toxicity)
Uses	Historically Medicinal (under strict medical supervision only), Research
Wildlife Interactions	Some animals can tolerate the toxins, but it is generally avoided by most herbivores.
Invasiveness	Can be invasive in some regions.

Physical Characteristics:

• Height: Typically grows to 1-1.5 meters (3-5 feet) tall, but can sometimes reach up to 2 meters (6.5 feet).
• Leaves: Ovate (egg-shaped) with smooth edges, dark green, and often have a slightly purplish tinge. They are alternate (arranged singly along the stem) and can grow up to 18 cm (7 inches) long.
• Flowers: Bell-shaped, dull purple or reddish-purple with greenish veins. They are typically about 2.5 cm (1 inch) long and hang downwards. The flowers bloom from mid-summer to early fall (typically June to September in the Northern Hemisphere).
• Berries: The most distinctive feature. They are shiny black, about 1-1.5 cm (0.4-0.6 inches) in diameter, and resemble small cherries. They are initially green and ripen to black. Each berry contains numerous small, kidney-shaped seeds.
• Roots: Thick, fleshy, and branching. They are whitish or cream-colored.
• Smell: The plant has a faintly unpleasant, slightly sweet odor, especially when crushed.

Distinguishing Deadly Nightshade from Similar Plants:

It’s crucial to differentiate Deadly Nightshade from other plants, some of which are edible. Here’s a comparison table:

Feature	Deadly Nightshade (Atropa belladonna)	Black Nightshade (Solanum nigrum complex)	Bittersweet Nightshade (Solanum dulcamara)	Woody Nightshade (Solanum dulcamara)
Berry Color	Shiny Black	Dull Black or Purplish-Black	Bright Red	Bright Red
Berry Shape	Round	Round	Oval or Elongated	Oval or Elongated
Berry Size	1-1.5 cm (0.4-0.6 inches)	0.5-1 cm (0.2-0.4 inches)	1-1.5 cm (0.4-0.6 inches)	1-1.5 cm (0.4-0.6 inches)
Flower Color	Dull Purple/Reddish-Purple	White	Purple with Yellow Center	Purple with Yellow Center
Flower Shape	Bell-shaped	Star-shaped	Star-shaped	Star-shaped
Leaf Shape	Ovate, Smooth Edges	Ovate, Sometimes Wavy or Toothed Edges	Ovate or Lobed, Often with Two Basal Lobes	Ovate or Lobed, Often with Two Basal Lobes
Growth Habit	Upright, Bushy	Upright or Sprawling	Climbing or Trailing Vine	Climbing or Trailing Vine
Toxicity	Highly Toxic	Variably Toxic	Moderately Toxic	Moderately Toxic

Key Distinguishing Features:

• Shiny Black Berries: The most reliable identifier. No other common nightshade species has berries that are both this size and this consistently shiny black.
• Bell-Shaped Flowers: While other nightshades have star-shaped flowers, Deadly Nightshade’s are distinctively bell-shaped.
• Combination of Features: Don’t rely on just one characteristic. Look at the combination of leaf shape, flower shape and color, berry color and size, and overall growth habit.

A study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology in 2018 reviewed the historical and contemporary uses of Atropa belladonna, highlighting the importance of accurate identification to prevent accidental poisoning. The study emphasized the need for public education on the plant’s dangers.

2. What are the effects of deadly nightshade poisoning?

The toxicity of Deadly Nightshade is due to the presence of tropane alkaloids, primarily atropine and scopolamine. These chemicals are anticholinergics, meaning they block the action of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that plays a vital role in the nervous system.

Mechanism of Action:

Acetylcholine is involved in many bodily functions, including:

• Muscle Contraction: It controls the contraction of smooth muscles (found in the digestive tract, bladder, and blood vessels) and skeletal muscles.
• Gland Secretion: It stimulates the secretion of saliva, sweat, tears, and digestive juices.
• Heart Rate: It slows down the heart rate.
• Brain Function: It plays a role in memory, learning, and attention.

By blocking acetylcholine, atropine and scopolamine disrupt these functions, leading to a wide range of symptoms.

Symptoms of Poisoning:

The severity of symptoms depends on the amount of plant material ingested, the part of the plant (berries are generally considered the most toxic), the individual’s age and weight, and their overall health. Symptoms typically appear within 30 minutes to a few hours after ingestion.

Early Symptoms (Mild to Moderate Poisoning):

• Dry Mouth: Reduced saliva production.
• Blurred Vision: Difficulty focusing due to pupil dilation.
• Dilated Pupils: The pupils become very large and unresponsive to light.
• Difficulty Swallowing: Dryness and muscle weakness in the throat.
• Tachycardia (Rapid Heartbeat): The heart rate increases significantly.
• Flushed Skin: The skin becomes red and warm.
• Urinary Retention: Difficulty urinating.
• Constipation: Reduced bowel movements.
• Headache:
• Dizziness:
• Restlessness and Agitation:

Late Symptoms (Severe Poisoning):

• Hallucinations: Visual and auditory hallucinations.
• Delirium: Confusion, disorientation, and loss of contact with reality.
• Seizures: Uncontrolled muscle contractions.
• Hyperthermia (High Fever): The body temperature can rise dangerously high.
• Coma: Loss of consciousness.
• Respiratory Failure: Difficulty breathing or cessation of breathing.
• Cardiovascular Collapse: The heart may stop beating.
• Death

Children are particularly vulnerable to Deadly Nightshade poisoning. Even a small number of berries can cause severe symptoms. A 2020 report from the American Association of Poison Control Centers documented numerous cases of accidental plant poisonings in children, highlighting the need for vigilance.

Long-Term Effects:

Even if someone survives severe Deadly Nightshade poisoning, there may be long-term effects, such as:

• Vision Problems: Persistent blurred vision or difficulty focusing.
• Cognitive Impairment: Memory problems, difficulty concentrating, and other cognitive deficits.
• Psychological Issues: Anxiety, depression, and other mental health problems.

3. How to identify deadly nightshade?

This section expands on the identification details provided earlier, incorporating more specific visual cues and practical tips.

Leaf Identification:

• Texture: The leaves are generally smooth, but they may have a slightly velvety feel.
• Veins: The veins on the underside of the leaf are prominent.
• Arrangement: Pay close attention to the alternate leaf arrangement. This means that the leaves are attached to the stem one at a time, alternating sides. This is different from opposite leaf arrangement (where two leaves are attached at the same point on opposite sides of the stem) or whorled leaf arrangement (where three or more leaves are attached at the same point).
• Size Variation: While leaves can reach up to 18 cm, they can also be smaller, especially on younger plants or lower branches.

Flower Identification:

• Color Nuances: The purple color can range from a deep, almost reddish-purple to a paler, more muted purple. Look for the greenish veins, which are a key identifying feature.
• Shape: The bell shape is not always perfectly symmetrical. It may be slightly irregular or have a slightly flared opening.
• Orientation: The flowers consistently hang downwards, which helps distinguish them from other plants with upright flowers.
• Petals: Deadly nightshade flowers have 5 petals that are fused (joined) at the base.

Berry Identification:

• Shine: The “shiny” aspect is crucial. This is a glossy, reflective surface, unlike the dull or matte surface of many other berries.
• Color Progression: Observe the color change from green to black as the berries ripen. This can help you identify the plant even before the berries are fully mature.
• Attachment: The berries are attached to the plant by a short stem (pedicel).
• Cluster vs. Single: Deadly Nightshade berries typically grow singly, not in clusters like some other nightshade species.

Root Identification (If Exposed):

• Thickness: The roots are noticeably thick and fleshy, unlike the thin, fibrous roots of many other plants.
• Branching: The roots branch out extensively, forming a complex network.
• Color: The whitish or cream color is distinctive.

Habitat Clues:

• Shady Areas: Look in areas with dappled sunlight or partial shade. Deadly Nightshade rarely grows in full, direct sunlight.
• Moist Soil: The soil should be consistently moist but not waterlogged.
• Disturbed Ground: Areas where the soil has been disturbed, such as along trails, roadsides, or in construction areas, are more likely to harbor Deadly Nightshade.
• Woodland Edges: The edges of forests and woodlands are prime locations.

Using a Field Guide:

Always carry a reputable field guide to plants in your region. A good field guide will provide detailed descriptions, photographs, and illustrations to help you identify plants accurately. The Peterson Field Guide to Wildflowers is a widely respected resource.

Taking Photographs:

If you’re unsure about a plant’s identity, take clear photographs from multiple angles. Capture the leaves, flowers, berries (if present), and the overall growth habit of the plant. These photographs can be used for later identification or to consult with experts.

4. Where can I find information about deadly nightshade treatment?

Immediate Action:

If you suspect someone has ingested Deadly Nightshade, seek immediate medical attention. Do not wait for symptoms to develop. Call your local poison control center or emergency services (911 in the United States).

• United States: National Poison Control Center Hotline: 1-800-222-1222
• United Kingdom: NHS 111
• Canada: Contact your local poison control center (numbers vary by province/territory).
• Australia: Poisons Information Centre: 13 11 26

Provide Information:

When contacting poison control or emergency services, be prepared to provide the following information:

• The name of the plant: If possible, have a sample of the plant or a photograph.
• The amount ingested: Estimate how much of the plant was consumed.
• The time of ingestion: When did the person eat the plant?
• The person’s age, weight, and any pre-existing medical conditions.
• Any symptoms the person is experiencing.

Do NOT Induce Vomiting:

Unless specifically instructed by a medical professional, do not induce vomiting. Vomiting can sometimes worsen the situation, especially if the person is experiencing seizures or is unconscious.

Hospital Treatment:

Treatment for Deadly Nightshade poisoning typically involves supportive care and, in some cases, the administration of an antidote.

• Supportive Care: This may include:
  • Intravenous (IV) Fluids: To prevent dehydration.
  • Activated Charcoal: To absorb the toxins in the stomach and intestines. This is most effective if administered within the first hour after ingestion.
  • Medications to Control Seizures: Such as benzodiazepines.
  • Medications to Control Heart Rate and Blood Pressure:
  • Respiratory Support: If the person is having difficulty breathing, they may need a ventilator.
  • Monitoring of Vital Signs: Heart rate, blood pressure, breathing rate, and body temperature will be closely monitored.
• Antidote: Physostigmine is an antidote for Deadly Nightshade poisoning. It works by inhibiting the enzyme that breaks down acetylcholine, thus increasing the levels of acetylcholine in the body and counteracting the effects of the tropane alkaloids. However, physostigmine is not always used, as it can have serious side effects. It is typically reserved for severe cases with life-threatening symptoms. The decision to use physostigmine is made by a medical professional based on the individual’s condition.

A 2016 review article in the journal Toxicology discussed the management of anticholinergic poisoning, including Deadly Nightshade poisoning. The article emphasized the importance of early recognition and prompt treatment, including supportive care and the judicious use of physostigmine.

Prognosis:

The prognosis for Deadly Nightshade poisoning depends on several factors, including the amount ingested, the time to treatment, and the individual’s overall health. With prompt medical care, most people who experience mild to moderate poisoning recover fully. However, severe poisoning can be fatal, especially in children.

5. Deadly nightshade image/pictures.

Image Recommendations:

• Overall Plant: A photograph of the entire plant, showing its growth habit, leaves, and flowers (if in bloom).
• Close-up of Leaves: A clear image showing the shape, texture, and venation of the leaves.
• Close-up of Flowers: A detailed photograph of the bell-shaped flowers, showing their color and structure.
• Close-up of Berries: A high-resolution image of the shiny black berries, showing their size and shape.
• Image of Roots (if possible): A photograph of the thick, fleshy roots.
• Comparison Images: Images showing Deadly Nightshade alongside similar-looking plants (Black Nightshade, Bittersweet Nightshade) to highlight the differences.

Reputable Sources for Images:

• USDA Plants Database: (Search for “Atropa belladonna”) – A reliable source for botanical information and images.
• Missouri Botanical Garden Plant Finder: (Search for “Atropa belladonna”) – Provides detailed information and high-quality images.
• Royal Horticultural Society (RHS): (Search for “Atropa belladonna”) – A UK-based organization with excellent plant resources.

6. Are there cases of deadly nightshade in my area?

The distribution of Deadly Nightshade varies depending on your location. While it is not native to all regions, it has been introduced to many areas.

Finding Local Information:

• Local Botanical Gardens and Arboretums: These institutions often have information on the plants that grow in your area. Contact them or visit their websites.
• University Extension Services: Many universities have extension services that provide information on local plants and gardening.
• State or Provincial Department of Agriculture/Natural Resources: These agencies often have resources on invasive plants and potentially dangerous plants.
• Local Naturalist Groups and Hiking Clubs: Members of these groups may have firsthand knowledge of local plant populations.
• Online Plant Databases: Websites like iNaturalist and the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF) allow you to search for plant occurrences based on location.

Example (United States):

In the United States, Deadly Nightshade is not as widespread as some other invasive plants. It is more commonly found in the Northeast and Pacific Northwest, but it can occur in other areas as well. The USDA Plants Database provides a distribution map showing the states where it has been reported.

Example (United Kingdom):

Deadly Nightshade is relatively common in parts of the UK, particularly in southern England. The Botanical Society of Britain and Ireland (BSBI) has distribution maps showing its occurrence.

Reporting Sightings:

If you believe you have found Deadly Nightshade, especially in an area where it is not known to occur, it is helpful to report your sighting to a local authority, such as your state’s Department of Agriculture or a university extension service. This helps track the spread of the plant and can inform management efforts.

7. Historical Uses and Folklore of Deadly Nightshade

Deadly Nightshade has a long and fascinating history, intertwined with medicine, witchcraft, and folklore.

Medicinal Uses (Historical):

• Ancient Greece and Rome: Used as an anesthetic and antispasmodic. Dioscorides, a Greek physician in the 1st century AD, described its use in his De Materia Medica.
• Middle Ages: Used to treat a variety of ailments, including eye diseases, gout, and insomnia. However, its use was often dangerous due to the difficulty in determining a safe dosage.
• 19th and 20th Centuries: Atropine, extracted from Deadly Nightshade, was used as a pupil dilator in ophthalmology (and still is, in a purified and controlled form). It was also used to treat asthma, whooping cough, and as an antidote to certain types of poisoning.

Cosmetic Uses (Historical):

The name “belladonna” comes from the Italian words “bella” (beautiful) and “donna” (woman). In Renaissance Italy, women used extracts of Deadly Nightshade to dilate their pupils, making their eyes appear larger and more attractive. This practice was, of course, extremely dangerous.

Witchcraft and Folklore:

• Flying Ointments: Deadly Nightshade was a common ingredient in “flying ointments” used by witches in medieval Europe. These ointments, applied to the skin, were believed to induce hallucinations and a sensation of flying.
• Associations with the Devil: Due to its toxicity and hallucinogenic properties, Deadly Nightshade was often associated with the devil and dark magic.
• Protection from Evil: In some cultures, Deadly Nightshade was believed to ward off evil spirits and protect against witchcraft.

Modern Medicinal Uses (Controlled):

While the whole plant is no longer used medicinally due to its toxicity, purified extracts of atropine and scopolamine are still used in modern medicine:

• Atropine:
  • Ophthalmology: To dilate pupils during eye exams and surgeries.
  • Cardiology: To treat certain types of slow heart rate (bradycardia).
  • Antidote: To treat poisoning from organophosphate insecticides and nerve agents.
• Scopolamine:
  • Motion Sickness: Used in transdermal patches to prevent motion sickness.
  • Anesthesia: Sometimes used as a pre-anesthetic medication to reduce secretions and prevent nausea and vomiting.

8. Gardening Considerations: Removal and Disposal

If you discover deadly nightshade on your property, removing is essential to protect your family and any pets.

Safe Removal Techniques:

Wear gloves, long sleeves, long pants, and eye protection. The sap of the plant can irritate the skin. Dig up the entire plant, including the roots. Deadly nightshade can regrow from root fragments. Use a shovel or garden fork to loosen the soil around the plant and carefully lift it out. Do not compost the plant. The alkaloids can remain active in compost. Dispose of the plant material in a sealed plastic bag in your regular trash. Wash your tools thoroughly with soap and water after handling the plant. Monitor the area for any new growth and repeat the removal process if necessary. Consider herbicides, but only as a last resort. If you choose to use an herbicide, select one that is specifically labeled for use on broadleaf weeds and follow the instructions carefully. Glyphosate is a commonly used herbicide that can be effective on deadly nightshade, but be sure to check for local regulations or guidelines.

9. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Deadly Nightshade

• Q: Can I touch Deadly Nightshade without getting poisoned?
  • A: While brief, casual contact with the plant is unlikely to cause severe poisoning, it is best to avoid touching it with bare skin. The sap can cause skin irritation, and there is a risk of transferring the toxins to your mouth or eyes if you touch your face.
• Q: What should I do if my pet eats Deadly Nightshade?
  • A: Contact your veterinarian or an animal poison control center immediately. Deadly Nightshade is toxic to animals, and even a small amount can be dangerous.
• Q: Is Deadly Nightshade the same as Black Nightshade?
  • A: No, they are different plants. While both belong to the nightshade family, Deadly Nightshade (Atropa belladonna) is much more toxic than Black Nightshade (Solanum nigrum complex).
• Q: Can Deadly nightshade be grown and cultivated for research?
  • A: Yes, in controlled environments with authorization.
• Q: How long do Deadly Nightshade seeds remain viable?
  • A: Deadly Nightshade seeds can remain viable in the soil for many years, possibly even decades. This is why it’s important to remove the entire plant, including the roots, to prevent it from spreading.

10. Respecting the Power of Deadly Nightshade

Deadly Nightshade is a powerful plant with a rich history and a potential for both harm and healing. While its toxicity should never be underestimated, understanding its characteristics, recognizing its dangers, and knowing how to respond to potential poisoning are crucial for safety. Gardencenterpoint.com encourages responsible gardening practices and emphasizes the importance of education when it comes to potentially hazardous plants. By respecting the power of Deadly Nightshade, we can coexist with this fascinating yet formidable plant.