Yellow belladonna (Atropa lutea)

Yellow-flowered deadly nightshade

Atropa lutea - Botanical Profile of the Yellow-Flowered Belladonna

Growing primarily in temperate regions, this herbaceous perennial stands out within the Solanaceae family due to its distinct yellow flowers. It belongs to the genus Atropa, which is renowned for its highly potent alkaloids and historical significance in pharmacology. Historically described by the botanist Döll, the plant was later reclassified under its current binomial name.

Like its close relatives, this species produces dark, glossy berries that contain toxic chemical compounds. Researchers study this plant to compare its alkaloid profile with the more common deadly nightshade. It serves as an interesting subject for taxonomic debates regarding its classification as a separate species or a color variant.

Taxonomy

  • ∟ царство Plantae
  • ∟ division Tracheophytes (Vascular Plants)
  • ∟ subdivision Spermatophytes (Seed plants)
  • ∟ Angiosperms
  • ∟ mesangiosperms (Core angiosperms)
  • ∟ eudicots
  • ∟ asterids
  • ∟ order Solanales
  • ∟ family Solanaceae
  • ∟ subfamily Solanoideae
  • ∟ tribe Hyoscyameae
  • ∟ genus Atropa (Belladonna)
  • ∟ species Atropa lutea (Yellow belladonna)

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Morphology

This herbaceous perennial features erect stems that can reach heights of up to one meter. The leaves are ovate, smooth, and green, arranged alternately along the branching stems. Unlike the typical purple-flowered nightshade, this species is characterized by its bright yellow, bell-shaped flowers.

Following the flowering period, the plant develops spherical, shiny berries that turn black upon maturity. Each berry is surrounded by a persistent green calyx and contains numerous small seeds. The root system is thick, fleshy, and highly branched, storing nutrients for the plant's winter dormancy.

Flowering season

Summer, typically from June to August

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Applications

Due to its high concentration of tropane alkaloids, this species finds application strictly in scientific research and pharmaceutical extraction. Compounds such as atropine and scopolamine are isolated from the plant tissues for medicinal use in ophthalmology and cardiology. It is never used in home remedies or horticulture due to the extreme danger of accidental poisoning.

Interesting facts

  • The specific epithet lutea refers to the yellow color of its blossoms, which distinguishes it from the purple-flowered Atropa belladonna.
  • Scientific classification of this plant has been revised several times, moving between a distinct species status and a variety of the common belladonna.
  • All parts of the plant, including the roots, leaves, and berries, contain deadly toxins that can cause severe anticholinergic syndrome if ingested.

Geography of distribution

  • Europa

Sources

  • Plants of the World Online (POWO)
  • Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF)
  • World Flora Online (WFO)

Technical Information

External Databases: GBIF, POWO, Tropicos

See also

Deadly Nightshade

Deadly Nightshade

Atropa bella-donna

Atropa bella-donna, commonly known as deadly nightshade, is a highly toxic perennial herbaceous plant in …

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