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Horsenettle #873931

Asked June 20, 2024, 1:28 PM EDT

Hello, I had horsenettle growing in my vegetable garden. I wore gloves and pulled the weed with as much of the root as possible. A few of the weeds had flowers but most did not. My question is, are the vegetables growing next to where the horsenettle was safe to eat?

Sussex County Delaware

Expert Response

Thank you for contacting Ask Extensions.

Horsenettle is toxic to animals and humans. The plant contains solanine, a glycoalkaloid that can affect the nervous system and the lining of the mouth and stomach. The level of toxicity depends on the part of the plant eaten, the maturity of the plant, and the environment. The berries are the most toxic part, especially when they are unripe, and toxicity is usually higher in late summer and fall. The plants have deep taproots so they may come back after pulling.  Watch for and remove any regrowth.

The vegetables that were growing next to the nettle are still safe to eat.  Take particular care not to ingest any part of the nettle.

For more information on horsenettle:
https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/solanum-carolinense/

Linda Peters, Master Gardener,   Replied July 01, 2024, 1:43 AM EDT

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