Carolina horsenettle
solanum carolinense
Also known as: ["Horsenettle","Solanum carolinense var. carolinense"]
Overview
A spiny, herbaceous perennial plant native to the southeastern United States, known for its prickly stems and toxic berries.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Solanales |
| Family: | Solanaceae |
| Genus: | Solanum |
| Botanical Name: | Solanum carolinense |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: open garden areas, roadside plantings
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: moderate
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter; tolerates poor soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed; lightly prune after flowering or in early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade but may produce fewer flowers/fruits.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun in hot climates; ensure adequate airflow to prevent sunburn.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use shade cloth in extreme heat; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-drained, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).
Use raised beds in heavy soils; avoid compacted soil; mulch to retain moisture.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (65–85°F/18–29°C); thrives in summer heat; sensitive to frost.
Monitor temperature extremes; adjust watering; protect from frost.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Dilute fertilizer to half strength; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed; stem cuttings are faster and more reliable.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cuttings.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Transplant when rooted.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is active.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F/21–24°C), humid, and partial shade.
Medium
Well-draining mix (e.g., perlite and peat moss) or sandy soil.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; establish in 8–12 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep medium consistently moist; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips; trim back leggy stems; remove crossing branches.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or diseased growth; shape plant for better air circulation; encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves, disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune dead/diseased parts; shape plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2–3 inches in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and health.
Checklist
Choose new pot; prepare fresh soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal growth.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or wilting in extreme heat; stunted growth or bud drop in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth; prolonged cold can cause leaf drop and root damage.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; use frost cloth for protection; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced fruit set.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute correctly; apply to soil; avoid foliage contact.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer (10-10-10) every 4–6 weeks during growing season; reduce or stop in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicSolanum carolinense is toxic to cats due to the presence of solanine and other glycoalkaloids. These compounds can cause severe gastrointestinal and neurological symptoms in felines, requiring prompt veterinary intervention.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe glycoalkaloids in Solanum carolinense are toxic to dogs, causing gastrointestinal upset and potentially more severe systemic effects. The toxins can lead to significant discomfort and health risks in canines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicSolanum carolinense contains solanine and other glycoalkaloids, which are toxic compounds that can cause significant physiological disturbances when ingested. These compounds interfere with cellular processes, leading to gastrointestinal, neurological, and cardiovascular effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Carolina horsenettle edible?
A: No, all parts of the plant are toxic to humans and animals.
Q: How does Carolina horsenettle spread?
A: It spreads through rhizomes and seeds, making it difficult to control once established.
Q: What are the uses of Carolina horsenettle?
A: Despite its toxicity, it is sometimes used in traditional medicine, though its use is not recommended due to its poisonous nature.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Solanaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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