Carolina horsenettle (Solanum carolinense)

Also known as: Devil's tomato, Radical weed

Horse nettle (Solanum carolinense) is a perennial herb indigenous to the southeastern United States. Although it carries the name "nettle," it is actually a member of the nightshade family and not a true nettle. All parts of this plant are toxic.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of Carolina horsenettle

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

20 cm to 1.2 m

Spread

30 cm

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

2 cm to 3 cm

Flower Color

White Purple Yellow

Images of Carolina horsenettle

Quickly Identify Carolina horsenettle

Plant can grow up to 4 feet (1.2 meters) tall.

Distinct star-shaped flowers with yellow stamens.

Smooth berries resembling miniature tomatoes.

Alternate leaves emit potato-like odor when crushed.

Stems exhibit zig-zag pattern with sharp prickles.

Scientific Classification of Carolina horsenettle

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Solanales

Family

Nightshade

Genus

Nightshades

Species

Carolina horsenettle

Planting and Growing of Carolina horsenettle

Care Difficulty

Hard

Watering Schedule

Every 3 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

6-10 hours

Ideal Temperature

70-85℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

5.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Carolina horsenettle?

Solanum carolinense thrives with moderate watering. The key is to allow the soil to dry out slightly between watering sessions. Water until the soil feels evenly moist but ensure it is not soggy, promoting healthy root development.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Carolina horsenettle? ›

What should I do if my Carolina horsenettle is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Carolina horsenettle? ›

How to save an overwatered Carolina horsenettle? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Carolina horsenettle?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun, Partial sun

Duration of light: 6-8 hours

Solanum carolinense thrives best in full sun, with at least 6-8 hours of sunlight. Adequate light aids in strong, healthy growth and helps the plant resist disease and pests.

Question 1: What is the ideal light condition for Solanum carolinense? ›

Question 2: How can I ensure optimal light conditions? ›

Question 3: What are the benefits of ideal lighting? ›

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Carolina horsenettle?

Ideal Temperature: 70 ~ 85℉

The ideal temperature for growing Solanum carolinense is between 70°F and 85°F. This range allows the plant to maximize its growth potential by providing optimal conditions for photosynthesis and nutrient uptake. Temperatures within this range promote healthy foliage and flowering.

What Soil is Best for Carolina horsenettle?

Soil type: Sandy soil, Sandy loam, Loam

Soil PH: 5.5 ~ 7.5

Solanum carolinense prefers well-draining soil to prevent root rot. Sandy and loamy soils are ideal choices, allowing excess water to drain away while still retaining essential nutrients, supporting robust root development. This plant thrives in soils with moderate nutrient content; excessive nutrients can lead to rapid growth and weak stems. Providing a balanced nutrient mix ensures healthy plant structure and flowering. Adding organic matter to the soil helps improve its texture and water retention capabilities. Organic amendments support microbial activity, which enhances nutrient uptake, contributing to the plant's overall health.

How to Fertilize Carolina horsenettle?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

Solanum carolinense benefits from a moderate amount of fertilizer. For liquid fertilizers, use a balanced formula such as 10-10-10 at a rate of 1 tablespoon per gallon of water. Apply this once every two weeks. For slow-release fertilizers, a gentle 10-10-10 mix applied at 1 pound per 100 square feet annually is sufficient.

How to Prune Carolina horsenettle?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer

Begin by closely inspecting the plant and identifying any damaged, diseased, or weak stems. Use sharp pruning shears to cut these parts back to healthy tissue, improving the plant's overall health. Trim the plant to maintain a pleasing shape and structure. Focus on encouraging a balanced growth by cutting back overgrown sections. This not only enhances its appearance but also boosts airflow within the foliage. To promote vigorous new growth, prune back some of the older or overly crowded branches. This will allow sunlight to penetrate and nourish the inner sections of the plant, fostering healthy regeneration.

How to Propagate Carolina horsenettle plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early spring, Late spring

Begin by filling seed trays with a well-draining potting mix. Sow the seeds sparsely and cover them lightly with soil. Keep the trays in a warm location with indirect sunlight and water regularly until germination occurs.

For root cutting propagation, choose a healthy Solanum carolinense plant. Use a sharp knife to cut 2-3 inch sections of healthy roots, ensuring each piece has a clean cut. These can be planted horizontally in a mixture of sand and peat moss.

Once seedlings or rooted cuttings show substantial growth and have their first true leaves, transplant them into individual pots or directly into the garden. Ensure they receive adequate sunlight and consistent moisture during their initial establishment phase.

How to Repot Carolina horsenettle plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

You should consider repotting Solanum carolinense when you see roots protruding from the drainage holes, the soil dries out quickly after watering, or the plant appears top-heavy and unstable. These are clear signals that your plant needs more space to grow healthily.

Select a pot that is 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the current pot. Ensure that it has adequate drainage holes to avoid waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. A slightly larger pot provides enough space for root expansion while maintaining soil moisture balance.

Opt for a well-draining potting mix that can retain some moisture but also allows for proper aeration. A mix with perlite or sand is ideal for Solanum carolinense, as it aids in preventing over-saturation of the roots and promoting healthy growth.

Toxicity of Carolina horsenettle

Is Carolina horsenettle toxic to humans?

Carolina horsenettle is highly poisonous to humans if consumed. Every part of this plant contains toxic alkaloids, with the highest concentrations found in its fruits. Symptoms resulting from ingestion include fever, headaches, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal discomfort, and in severe instances, respiratory failure and potentially death. In numerous regions, Carolina horsenettle is considered a troublesome invasive species – many individuals encounter this plant while attempting to eradicate it. Fortunately, instances of Carolina horsenettle ingestion in humans are exceedingly rare, as there are no edible look-alikes for this species. If you must handle or cut down Carolina horsenettle, it is essential to thoroughly wash your hands afterward to remove any plant debris and avoid accidentally ingesting harmful alkaloids.

Is Carolina horsenettle toxic to cat?

Carolina horsenettle is a harmful plant species that presents significant health hazards for cats. When a cat ingests any portion of carolina horsenettle, they can suffer physical distress because of its toxic characteristics. Cats might accidentally consume carolina horsenettle, resulting in poisoning symptoms that require urgent veterinary assistance. Although specific symptoms are not outlined, cat owners should remain attentive for any indications of illness and quickly seek care at a veterinary clinic to safeguard the well-being of their feline friends.

Is Carolina horsenettle toxic to dog?

Carolina horsenettle represents a toxic species for dogs, creating a serious health hazard upon ingestion. Dogs may inadvertently ingest various parts of this plant, resulting in poisoning. The entire structure of the plant, comprising leaves, stems, flowers, and berries, harbors toxic properties and should be kept securely away from pets. Following consumption, dogs may display symptoms such as gastrointestinal distress, lethargy, hypothermia, or more serious indications depending on the volume ingested. It is essential for dog owners to remain alert and safeguard their pets from encountering carolina horsenettle. If poisoning from carolina horsenettle is suspected, prompt veterinary attention is vital to secure the best possible prognosis for the affected dog.

WARNING

The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.

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