Belladonna is a branching, herbaceous perennial with thick roots in the nightshade family native to England as well as Eurasian and Mediterranean countries, where it can be found in disturbed areas, along roads and waste sites. In the US, it has naturalized in disturbed grounds in New York as well as our three west coast states, Washington, Oregon and California. A beautiful but deadly plant, its genus name is derived from the Greek mythology. Atropos, one of the three fates, held shears that cut the thread of life. The species name, Italian for beautiful lady, references the ancient use of the plant as a cosmetic. Belladonna grows best in well-drained sandy loam in full sun to part shade. But because it is poisonous in all of its parts, it should never be planted in home landscapes. The plant is so toxic that if an open wound comes in contact with the leaves, roots or fruits, the results can be fatal. Domestic pets can also suffer the effects of this toxic plant. Although causing ill effects in domestic animals, some birds and other wildlife eat the fruits without effect. Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: Slugs are a common issue. Its poisonous properties should discourage planting in home gardens.
Curated pairwise relationships between this plant and others in the library — who feeds
whom, who competes, who confuses the pests. Green reads as a good pairing, red as one to avoid.
No curated interactions recorded for this species yet.
Also noted by NC State
Related species the NC State Plant Toolbox flags for this plant — look-alikes to tell
apart, and plants that play a similar role in a planting. Ones we carry in the library are linked.
Highly toxic. Small doses will produce delirium and hallucinations, larger doses will kill. Fever, rapid pulse, dilation of pupils, hot and dry flushed skin, headache, dry mouth, difficulty of swallowing, burning of the throat, hallucinations, convulsions. May cause death in livestock and pets.