Solanum dealbatum, Solanum flavidum, Solanum leprosum, Solanum obtusifolium
Prairie berry, satansbos, silver-leaf bitter-apple, silverleaf nettle, silverleaf nightshade, silver-leaved nightshade, silver nightshade, white horsenettle
Solanum elaeagnifolium, the silverleaf nightshade or silver-leaved nightshade, is a common weed of western North America and also found in South America. Other common names include prairie berry, silverleaf nettle, white horsenettle or silver nightshade. In South Africa it is known as silver-leaf bitter-apple or satansbos ("Satan's bush" in Afrikaans). More ambiguous names include "bull-nettle", "horsenettle" and the Spanish "trompillo".
Solanum elaeagnifolium, also known as silverleaf nightshade, is a perennial weed native to North America. In Qatar, it has been naturalized and is considered an invasive species. Studies have found that S. elaeagnifolium grows abundantly in Qatar's coastal and inland areas, particularly in saline soils and disturbed habitats. It has been reported to thrive in the country's arid climate, with high temperatures and low rainfall. The plant's presence in Qatar has raised concerns about its potential impact on native vegetation and ecosystems.
Observations of Solanum elaeagnifolium in Qatar show that the plant blooms with white, blue, or purple flowers and produces fruits. It grows on Green Circles (center-pivot irrigation) in Irkhaya Farms, south-western Qatar. The plant was observed blooming in October 2014, June 2015, August 2015, and June 2016, indicating that it can bloom multiple times a year. The flowers are often blue, but white and purple flowers were also observed. Fruits of the plant were seen on October 25, 2014. The plant grows in fields and can form large groups, as seen on June 5, 2015. Overall, Solanum elaeagnifolium appears to be a common and widespread plant in Irkhaya Farms, Qatar. Its ability to bloom multiple times a year suggests that it is adapted to the local climate and irrigation conditions.
www.theplantlist.org
QNHG (Qatar Natural History Group) and associated people, for a possibility to participate in their field excursions and to learn about local nature.