Stevens County Noxious Weed Control
Board This web site will help
you identify & control noxious weeds. Conventional & biological control
(BioControl) information and photographs are here. Maps & related
information are included.
A vine that trails or climbs, with spreading stems up to 10’ long
1"-4" long leaves are dark green to deep purple and are
often lobed at the base
Star-shaped flowers have (5) purple petals and very prominent
yellow-orange anthers (like the typical potato plant flower)
The fruit is a berry that starts out hard, green and oval, ripening
to yellow, orange then red and somewhat translucent
Biology and ecology
A perennial reproducing mainly from seeds
Native to Europe but now widespread throughout much of North
America
ALL parts of the plant are toxic to humans and animals. The bright
red berries can be an attractant, especially to children
Plants can often be seen winding up through brush along drainage
ditches and waterways; also found around old buildings, fence rows
and waste areas
Prefers moist habitats
Control
Prevention –
Learn to
identify plants; know your property
Biological – No known biological control
Cultural – Healthy vegetation will help discourage invasion,
but the plants are shade tolerant
Mechanical – Pulling or digging small infestations is
practical. Roots must be removed as well as stems to avoid re-sprouting.
Consistent, persistent mowing prior to berry formation may be effective
Chemical –Brush killers or glyphosate products should be
effective, especially at the flower stage or in fall;
The
PNW Weed Management Handbook does not have this weed listed for
control recommendations
Photo above and below:
GD Carr, University of Hawaii at Manoa
Where found –
Bittersweet
nightshade can be found scattered here and there throughout Stevens
County, especially along creeks, around old farm equipment and in
ditches.
