General: Buffalobur Nightshade (Solanum rostratum) is a nasty, spiny weed that does not belong in the Mojave Desert. This plant is recognized by the yellow (or yellow and white) flowers with fused petals. There are five stamens, but four are short and straight, and one is long and curved. In addition, the leaves are deeply lobed.
Buffalobur Nightshade is a common weed in the Midwestern US and in coastal and central valleys of California; it is not expected in the Mojave Desert.
Keep an eye out for this species and eradicate it if you can. This species is listed as a Noxious Weed in Washington, Oregon, and Idaho, but not in Nevada. Link to Weeds Around Las Vegas.
Family: Nightshade (Solanaceae).
Other Names: Androcera rostrata, Solanum cornutum, Colorado bur, Kansas thistle, Mexican thistle, Texas thistle, buffalobur. |