Western nightshade
Solanum coactiliferum
Family: Solanaceae
What it is like
A small erect shrub. It is hairy and 30 cm high. It often has prickles which curve backwards. These are usually only on the stems. The leaves are oblong and often folded. They are 5 cm long. The flowers are purple and have yellow stamens in the centre. The fruit are yellow when ripe. They are 1.5 cm across.
There are about 1400 Solanum species.
Where it is found
It is a tropical plant. It grows on sandplains. It can grow in arid places.
Countries/locations it is found in
Australia (country/location of origin)
How it is used for food
The small berries may be eaten raw once the bitter seeds have been removed. The fruit can also be baked and eaten once the seeds have been removed.
Edible parts
Fruit
How it is grown
Its other names
Local names
Itunypa, Tjantu, Warakalukalu