Green-flowered Belladonna (Atropa viridiflora)

Green-flowered deadly nightshade
Silhouette: T. Michael Keesey / License

Atropa viridiflora - Green-Flowered Deadly Nightshade Guide

Recognized by its distinctive greenish flowers, Atropa viridiflora grows as a perennial herbaceous species within its native montane habitats. This wild plant is closely related to other deadly nightshades and shares their characteristic biochemical profile. Botanists study this species primarily for its unique floral pigmentation and evolutionary adaptations.

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 viridiflora (Green-flowered Belladonna)

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Morphology

This perennial herb displays an erect growth habit with branching stems that can reach moderate heights. The leaves are ovate to lanceolate, arranged alternately along the stems, and have a smooth or slightly puberulent texture. The most distinguishing feature is the flower, which exhibits a pale green to greenish-yellow corolla.

Key morphological features include:

  • Stems: Erect, herbaceous, and occasionally tinged with purple.
  • Leaves: Large, dark green, and entire-margined.
  • Flowers: Bell-shaped, solitary, and nodding, featuring a greenish hue.
  • Fruit: A globose berry that turns dark purple or black when fully mature.

Flowering season

June to August

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Applications

Due to the presence of highly active tropane alkaloids, Atropa viridiflora has no common horticultural or domestic applications. Its primary significance lies in toxicological research and pharmacological studies, where its chemical compounds are analyzed for potential medical applications. Traditional uses are virtually non-existent or highly restricted due to the extreme danger of accidental poisoning.

Interesting facts

The greenish coloration of the flowers serves as a fascinating example of evolutionary adaptation, potentially attracting specific nocturnal or crepuscular pollinators. Like its close relatives, every part of this plant contains dangerous toxins that can cause severe physiological reactions upon ingestion.

Geography of distribution

  • Южная и Центральная Европа
  • Кавказ

Sources

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

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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Yellow belladonna

Yellow belladonna

Atropa lutea

A rare, yellow-flowered perennial herb related to the deadly nightshade, belonging to the Solanaceae family.

Read more →