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Native Plant Trust: Go Botany Discover thousands of New England plants

Questions and Answers: 2017

Question: I've been trying to identify this plant. I think its a type of nightshade but can't find a photo that …

  • Question

    I've been trying to identify this plant. I think its a type of nightshade but can't find a photo that matches. It has white flowers that turn purple with yellow stamens. It stands about 18" and the baffling part is the thorns throughout. Any information will be appreciated. I am located in Saginaw MI. Thanks

    Answer

    Dear otis99, you likely have Solanum carolinense (Carolina nightshade), a species that is introduced to this part of the world. I am not familiar with all the possible nightshade species you might encounter (Go Botany is a website for plants of New England), but our floras are somewhat similar. Best wishes.