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Enchanter's nightshade

Enchanter's nightshade ©John Bridges

Enchanter's nightshade

Scientific name: Circaea lutetiana
Enchanter's nightshade is a hairy plant, with rounded leaves that taper to a fine tip, and clusters of small, pinky-white flowers in summer.

Species information

Statistics

Height: 20-70cm

Conservation status

Common.

When to see

June to August

About

Enchanter's nightshade is hairy plant that is actually a member of the willowherb family, rather than being related to deadly nightshade. It can be found in woodlands, hedgerows, gardens and even at the foot of old walls; it especially likes heavy, rich soils. It bears loose clusters of tiny, pinky-white flowers from June to August. Enchanter's nightshade can spread through rhizomes, which are creeping, root-like stems that move through the soil.

How to identify

Enchanter's nightshade has opposite oval leaves that are rounded at the base, but more pointed at the tip. Its flowers are very light pink and grow in branching clusters (the 'inflorescence') at the ends of the upright stems.

Distribution

Widespread.

Habitats

Did you know?

Despite it's evocative name, there are no known herbal uses or supposed powers attributed to enchanter's nightshade.