Yellow Henbane
hyoscyamus albus
Also known as: ["Stinking Nightshade","White Henbane"]
Overview
A highly toxic annual or biennial plant with yellow flowers and an unpleasant odor, historically used in traditional medicine but now primarily recognized for its toxicity.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Solanales |
| Family: | Solanaceae |
| Genus: | Hyoscyamus |
| Botanical Name: | Hyoscyamus albus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in a sunny spot, or container in a sheltered location
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: moderate
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or in early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade in intense summer heat.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to full sun; protect from harsh midday sun in summer; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderateModerate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains in intense light; avoid direct sun on leaves during peak hours.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-drained, sandy loam with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of potting soil and perlite; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers 60–80°F (15–27°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in warm conditions.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Fertilize less in winter; apply to moist soil to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seeds.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cuttings.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is active.
Environment
Warm, humid, and bright indirect light; protect from direct sun.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can improve success rate.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushiness; cut just above a leaf node or bud.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or diseased growth.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape plant; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure good drainage holes.
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 soil freshness.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
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 in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels 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
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or bud drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop; prolonged cold can lead to root damage.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide frost protection in winter; avoid cold drafts.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, reduced flowering; may drop leaves to conserve water.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid foliage contact.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are highly sensitive to tropane alkaloids found in Hyoscyamus albus. Even small amounts can cause severe anticholinergic toxicity, affecting the central nervous system, cardiovascular system, and thermoregulation.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Hyoscyamus albus can cause severe anticholinergic poisoning due to tropane alkaloids. These substances disrupt normal neurotransmission, leading to significant neurological and cardiovascular effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicHyoscyamus albus contains tropane alkaloids, primarily hyoscyamine and scopolamine, which act as potent anticholinergics. These compounds block acetylcholine receptors, leading to severe physiological disruptions, including central nervous system depression or excitation, mydriasis, and impaired thermoregulation.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Yellow Henbane safe for pets?
A: No, it is highly toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: What are the traditional uses of Yellow Henbane?
A: Historically used in traditional medicine for sedative and anesthetic purposes, though its toxicity limits modern use.
Q: How does Yellow Henbane grow?
A: It is an annual or biennial plant that thrives in disturbed soils and can be invasive in some regions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Solanaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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