Morrison's Nightshade
NameMorrison's Nightshade
Scientific NameSolanum morrisonii
Common NamesMorrison's Solanum, Morrison's Bush Tomato
Plant FamilySolanaceae
Natural HabitatEndemic to Western Australia, it thrives in arid and semi-arid regions, commonly found on red sandy soils, gravelly soils, or rocky areas.
Parts Usedwhole_plant
Medicinal Actions
Traditional UsesSpecific traditional medicinal uses for Solanum morrisonii are not widely documented. However, many Solanum species in Australia were traditionally used by Indigenous Australians, some for food (bush tomatoes, often cooked to reduce toxicity) and others for various ailments, though often with careful preparation due to the genus's known toxicity.
Active Constituentssteroidal glycoalkaloids (e.g., solasodine, solamargine)
Preparation Methods
Contraindications & WarningsThe plant, like many Solanum species, is likely toxic due to the presence of steroidal glycoalkaloids. Ingestion of raw plant parts, especially fruits, can cause severe gastrointestinal upset, neurological symptoms, and can be fatal in large doses. Not recommended for internal use without expert guidance and specific documentation of safe preparation.
Cultivation NotesThis drought-tolerant shrub prefers full sun and well-drained soils, typical of its native arid environment. It can be propagated from seed.
Raritycommon
Description
Solanum morrisonii is an erect, prickly shrub typically growing 0.5-2 meters tall, characterized by its grey-green, hairy, ovate to lanceolate leaves. It produces star-shaped purple or white flowers, followed by globular berries that ripen to yellow or orange.
