For the identification of insects and other fauna and flora of South Africa.

Wednesday, January 11, 2012

Poison Apple (Solanum panduriforme)

Poison Apple (Solanum panduriforme)  family Solanaceae



The fruit is about 20mm (1”) in diameter and when ripe, is orange/yellow in color and in both stages, poisonous.

This plant has an extensive root system from which new plants sprout and is found mainly in grassland areas.

Both roots and fruit are used in traditional medicine.

Bees release pollen by rapid vibration as they hang from the sacks.



A small perennial shrub growing to about 50cm (1 ½ Feet) in height.

3 comments:

Gaelyn said...

Maybe I should be glad I can't eat apples right now.

SAPhotographs (Joan) said...

Thanks for the comments Gaelyn.

Just think, one of these days you will feel better and have a wonderful NEW smile too. :)

Becky said...

Very interesting Joan. This plant looks similar to our Nightshade we have here.
B.