Characterization of Black Nightshade (Solanum nigrum) and Related Species in the United States

Abstract

Information from taxonomic treatments and comparisons of accessions from numerous locations grown in the field and greenhouse were combined and summarized to produce a key and descriptions of common agricultural nightshades in North America (Solanum americanum Mill., S. nigrum L., S. ptycanthum Dun., and S. sarrachoides Sendt.). Quantitative and qualitative descriptions of key characters and photographs of important morphological structures are provided to facilitate field identification. Problems with nomenclature among these species are discussed, and a system of common names that would standardize usage is proposed.