It’s time for another dose of pest plant awareness – this time, a real prickly character that we’d like to see less of here in Tasman.
White-edged nightshade (Solanum marginatum) is native to North Africa. This perennial shrub is listed as a progressive containment pest species in our region due to its potential to inhabit pastureland, forest margins and coastal areas.
It has spiky white stems and oak-shaped leaves with white edges, green uppers and white undersides.
Once established, white-edged nightshade forms thick bushes that stock cannot pass through or eat and also prevents the establishment of native seedlings.
Each leaf has prominent white veins with vicious-looking prickles on both surfaces.
The berries are poisonous to humans and livestock, and when plants are disturbed, fine hairs are released as a dust that can cause extreme irritation of the respiratory tract.
Although the fruit is not particularly attractive to birds or other animals, this is one possible method of dispersal. Most spread occurs through the movement of the fruit in water or when soil containing the seeds is moved.
If you have one growing at home or have seen it around our region, please get in touch with our Biosecurity Team on 03 543 8400, or at biosecurity@tasman.govt.nz.
