Carolina Horse-Nettle

Carolina Horse-Nettle [Solanum carolinense] photos were taken on White Pine Road and Troy Hill Circle on 7 July 2013 and in Fletcher on 1 June 2019. It’s a member of the Potato (Solanaceae) family and genus Nightshade. Wildflowers of the Carolinas, pages 240-241, says it blooms in summer and grows in “dry sandy soils, disturbed areas, fields, lawns, and sun.” It also states “the fruit resembles a tiny tomato” and “is poisonous and has killed deer, cattle and humans.”

USDA Plants Listing: Solanum carolinense

Carolina Horse-Nettle – 1 June 2019

Carolina Horse-Nettle on White Pine Road - 7 July 2013

Carolina Horse-Nettle on White Pine Road – 7 July 2013

Carolina Horse-Nettle (side view) - Troy Hill Circle - 7 July 2013

Carolina Horse-Nettle (side view) – Troy Hill Circle – 7 July 2013

Carolina Horse-Nettle (two flowers) - 7 July 2013

Carolina Horse-Nettle (two flowers) – 7 July 2013