How to identify Henbane (Hyoscyamus niger)

Photo By Anneli Salo , used under CC-BY-SA-3.0 /Cropped and compressed from original

How to identify Henbane (Hyoscyamus niger)

Henbane, also known as Stinking nightshade, Henbell

Henbane is easily recognized by its dull green, wavy-margined leaves and its characteristic large, tubular flowers which are usually colored yellow with purple veins. The plant typically grows about 1-2 feet tall (30-60 cm) and has a sticky, glandular texture. Most parts, especially the seeds, emit an unpleasant smell when disturbed. This species tends to have a bushy appearance, and the drooping blooms lend a unique profile to the plant, distinguishing it from many others.

Lifespan: Biennial, Annual

Plant Type: Herb

Leaf Type: Deciduous

Quickly Identify Henbane

Large, tubular flowers with yellow and purple coloring distinguish henbane.

Distinctly hairy, sticky leaves with toothed margins and glandular hairs characterize henbane.

Sturdy, erect stems covered in fine, bristly hairs with a slight purplish tint.

Axillary flowers in leaf axils forming a unique 5-part arrangement.

Capsule fruit resembling a pineapple, turning brown with up to 200 seeds inside.

Detailed Traits of Henbane

Leaf Features

Henbane's leaves are distinctly hairy and sticky to the touch. The lower leaves attach to the stem via short petioles, while the upper leaves are sessile. They are ovate to lanceolate in shape, ranging from 2 to 8 inches (5 to 20 cm) in length, with irregularly toothed margins. The texture is coarse due to a dense covering of glandular hairs. Veins are prominent, creating a slightly wrinkled surface, and the leaves exhibit a dark green color.

Learn About the Leaf Glossary

Flower Features

The flowers of henbane are axillary, forming in the leaf axils, and are tubular in shape. They display a unique 5-part arrangement, with petals that are greenish-yellow or yellowish in color with distinct purple veins. Typically measuring around 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter, these flowers contribute a striking visual contrast. While the blooming period may vary, they are noted for their distinctive coloration and structure, aiding in the identification of henbane for garden enthusiasts.

Learn About the Flower Glossary

Stem Features

The stems of henbane are coarse and densely covered with fine, bristly hairs. They exhibit a sturdy, robust structure, typically ranging in thickness from 0.2 to 0.5 inches (0.5 to 1.3 cm). The color of the stems is generally green with a slight purplish tint. The plant's stems are usually erect and can be sparsely branched, with a slightly sticky texture due to the glandular hairs covering them.

Learn About the Stem Glossary

Fruit Features

The fruit of henbane presents as a striking capsule reminiscent of a pineapple or egg in shape, typically found at a size that may range from small to medium. As it approaches maturity, the outer layer transforms into a rich brown hue, with an intriguing texture that splits open to reveal its contents. Within each capsule, one can expect to find a profusion of seeds, numbering up to 200, each patiently awaiting dispersal to commence the next cycle of life. This distinctive pod is a unique marker of the species, aiding in its identification among plant aficionados.

Learn About the Fruit Glossary

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Key Facts About Henbane

Attributes of Henbane

Lifespan

Biennial, Annual

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

15 cm to 1 m

Spread

1 m

Stem Color

Green

Leaf type

Deciduous

The Toxicity of Henbane

Highly Toxic to Humans

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Scientific Classification of Henbane

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Nightshades, bindweeds, gooseweeds, and allies

Family

Nightshade

Genus

Henbanes

Species

Henbane (Hyoscyamus niger)

Learn More About the Henbane

Distribution Map of Henbane

Henbane is naturally found spanning temperate regions of Europe, North Africa, and across Asia from the Middle East to China. It has also spread to temperate zones on other continents. Its introduced range includes parts of East Asia and the Pacific, where it is less common. Besides being native to extensive areas, henbane is also cultivated in various regions for diverse purposes.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Potentially invasive

Exotic

No species reported

Learn More About the Henbane

A Comprehensive Guide to Henbane How to Grow and Care for Henbane