PlantFiles: Henbane
Hyoscyamus niger

This plant is listed on the North Dakota invasive/troublesome list and this information is being distributed in a guide developed by the ND Weed Control Association and other agencies.

Plant Features
Biennial or annual, erect, bushy, up to 3 feet tall
Large leaves, up to 5 inches wide and 8 inches long
Foliage sticky, hairy, and has a foul odor
Cream colored flowers with a purple center and purple veins
Taproot
Many small seeds in vase-shaped capsules

Distribution
Documented in a few areas. Grows under most conditions but prefers disturbed areas found along roads, gravel and scoria pits

Interesting Facts
Spreads by seed only
One plant can produce up to half-million seeds per year
All plant parts are poisionous to humans and livestock (contains alkaloids).
A few seeds can kill a small person if ingested
Irritates skin

This is a sticky strong smelling annual or biennial. That also goes by the common name of Stinking nightshade because of the strong smell. Also goes by the common name of Black henbane. Grows in poor stony dry soils. All parts are toxic if ingested and can irritate skin on contact. The flowers and the seed heads are used in dry flower arrangements.