Solanum hovei
NameSolanum hovei
Scientific NameSolanum sisymbriifolium Lam.
Common NamesSticky Nightshade, Litchi Tomato, Red Buffalo-bur, Vila-vila
Plant FamilySolanaceae
Natural HabitatNative to South America, it thrives in disturbed areas, roadsides, agricultural fields, and waste grounds. It is often considered a weed in many parts of the world where it has naturalized.
Parts Usedleaf,root,fruit,whole_plant
Medicinal Actionsanti-inflammatory,antimicrobial,analgesic,diuretic
Traditional UsesTraditionally used in South American folk medicine for various ailments including pain relief, inflammation, and skin conditions. It has also been used as a diuretic. The ripe fruits are sometimes consumed, but unripe fruits and other parts are considered toxic.
Active Constituentssteroidal glycoalkaloids, solasodine, solamargine, solasonine, flavonoids
Preparation Methodsinfusion,decoction,poultice
Contraindications & WarningsAll parts of the plant, especially unripe fruits, are toxic due to steroidal glycoalkaloids. Ingestion can cause severe gastrointestinal upset, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and neurological symptoms. Not recommended for internal use without expert supervision. Avoid during pregnancy and lactation, and in individuals with allergies to the Solanaceae family.
Cultivation NotesEasily grown from seed in full sun and well-drained soil. It is a vigorous grower and can become invasive in suitable climates, often considered a weed. Tolerates a range of soil types but prefers fertile conditions.
Raritycommon
Description
A thorny, herbaceous perennial plant, often grown as an annual, characterized by deeply lobed, hairy leaves and stems covered in sharp spines. It produces pale purple to white star-shaped flowers with prominent yellow anthers, followed by small, red, tomato-like fruits enclosed in a spiny calyx.
