Silverleaf nightshade (Solanum elaeagnifolium) is a troublesome weed of the nightshade family (Solanaceae). It reduces crop yields and contaminates harvested products, affecting their quality and marketability. Alfalfa, corn, wheat, sorghum and vegetable crops are particularly impacted. It is also toxic to livestock. Control is difficult due to the species' deep root system.
Report a silverleaf nightshade sighting
Where it's found
Silverleaf nightshade has not been found in Canada. It is native to the southwestern United States and northeastern Mexico and has been introduced elsewhere in the Americas. It is also present in Australia, India, southern Africa and around the Mediterranean basin.
Silverleaf nightshade is adapted to a wide range of habitats, including agricultural fields, pastures and disturbed areas. It is most problematic in dryland areas.
How to spot it
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Plants -
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Seeds
Silverleaf nightshade is a deep-rooted perennial herbaceous plant about 30–60 cm tall. Plants are covered with short white hairs, giving the plant a silvery-white appearance. The stems and main veins of leaves also have numerous yellow to red prickles. The leaves are lance-shaped with wavy margins. Flowers are star-shaped, 2-3 cm wide, with five fused blue, purple or white petals and five prominent yellow anthers. The berries are round and smooth, yellow or brown when mature, and contain 60–120 flat seeds.
How it spreads
Silverleaf nightshade reproduces mainly by seeds but can also grow from root fragments. It spreads as a contaminant of crop seed and animal feed, and in association with soil, ornamental plants, livestock, manure, vehicles and farm machinery. The seeds are also dispersed by birds, animals and water.
What you can do
- Use clean, high-quality seed that is certified if possible
- Use clean grain, hay and straw
- Maintain healthy and diverse pastures
- Ensure machinery, vehicles and tools are free of soil and plant parts before moving them from one area to another
- If you think you've spotted silverleaf nightshade, report it to the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA). The CFIA will follow up and determine if further action is needed.
What we are doing
Silverleaf nightshade is regulated as a pest in Canada under the Plant Protection Act. It is also listed as a prohibited noxious weed in the Weed Seeds Order, 2016 under the Seeds Act. Importation and domestic movement of regulated plants and their propagative parts is prohibited.