Common Name: Silverleaf nightshade
Silverleaf nightshade is sub-shrub of American origin and grows to a height of about 1.5 feet. The notable feature of this plant is that the entire plant has a silvery hue. The plant is tomentose and has stellate hairs. The plant is considered invasive in many countries; it is seen extensively in Tamilnadu around urban run down areas and road-sides. The simple leaves are arranged alternately and leaves are pale green in color. The margin of the leaf is wavy. The leaf stalk and leaf length measure around 1.5 cm and 8 cm respectively. The stem of the plant has small weak prickles which are about 3-4 mm long. The leaf shape is lanceolate and apex is acute and base is cuneate. The inflorescence is terminal or axillary cyme. The flower stalk measure around 1.7 cm long; the flower measures around 1.7 cm across. The calyx is united below and has 5 sepal teeth. The flowers are lavender in color and have 5 petal segments which are united below. The flower has a star like shape in appearance. The stamens number 5 and the anther elements are seen yellow in color. The fruit is in the form of an orange-red berry containing brown flat seeds. The entire plant is considered poisonous.
