General: Silverleaf Nightshade (Solanum elaeagnifolium) is an invasive perennial forb that grows 2-3 feet tall, and has long, narrow leaves with wavy margins. The flowers are purple with yellow anthers that stick out beyond the petals; petals are fused. The fruits are small yellow tomato-like berries that often persist into the winter.

Silverleaf Nightshade is an invasive weed. Around Las Vegas, this species is uncommon -- let's all work to make sure it stays that way.

Keep an eye out for this species. Land managers are actively working to eradicate Silverleaf Nightshade, so hopefully you won't see it anywhere. Silverleaf Nightshade is on the "Watch Weeds" list in the Lower Las Vegas Wash.

Family: Nightshade (Solanaceae).

Other Names: white horsenettle, white horse-nettle, purple nightshade, tomato weed.

Plant Form: Perennial forb from rhizomes; upright, shrubby.

Height: To about 3 feet.

Stems: Upright, branched.

Leaves: To about 6-inches long, oblong, margins somewhat wavy; alternate. Covered with tiny, star-shaped hairs.

Flowers: Blooms in spring to early summer. Inflorescence: raceme. Petals purple, fused, about 1-inch across. Anthers 8- to 10-mm long, yellow, stand out from the petals.

Fruit: Round, orange berry about 1/2-inch diameter, persistent.

Habitat: Invasive in disturbed dry areas, especially in sandy soils; fields, orchards, roadsides, vegetable crops, forest openings.

Elevation: To about 4,000 feet.

Distribution: Throughout most of the U.S. to South America. Native to central U.S. and northern Mexico.

Comments: Fruit toxic to livestock and humans, but eaten by some rodents and birds.