Horsenettle

Vegetative plants.  Key characteristics: alternate leaves with wavy margins.   Sharp spines are present on the veins and stems.

Rhizome.  Horsenettle has a vast underground rhizome system.

Flowering plant.  Key characteristics: flowers range in color from white to purple and have 5 petals.

Fruit.  Key characteristics: round, smooth and yellow in color.

Seed are compressed with a grainy surface and about 2mm in diameter.

Life cycle: perennial.

Toxic Plant: All animals, including humans and pets, may be affected.  All parts are potentially toxic; the berries are often higher in toxicity than other parts of the plant.  Horsenettle and other nightshade plants cause problems with the gastrointestinal tract and can also affect the central nervous system.  Signs can include abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, incoordination, weakness, depression, apparent hallucinations, convulsions, and possible death.