Deadly Nightshade (Atropa belladonna):
Deadly Nightshade is a small shrub that grows to about 5 feet tall. The leaves are oval-shaped and long, and the berries it produces go from green when unripe to a shiny black when ripened. The flowers produced are purple with traces of green and are in the shape of bells. In nature, the plant is found in areas of shade and moist soil.
Deadly Nightshade has several names it is known by including “Beautiful Death,” “Banewort,” and “Dwale.” This plant, often considered a weed, is one of the most toxic in the Eastern Hemisphere. No part of the plant should be eaten unless prepared by a medical professional. The plant is used for medicinal purposes today and was used for things like anesthetics in the past, but has also been used as a poison throughout the ages. People have died consuming just a few of the berries, which are sweet. Both the berries and leaves are toxic, but the root is the most toxic. While wild rabbits and cattle seem to be able to eat the plant without problems, it should never be consumed by humans or domestic animals like dogs or cats.
Deadly Nightshade