Bittersweet is a nightshade, so is toxic; its bright red berries may be tempting, but can cause serious illness. Found in hedgerows and gardens, it has purple flowers with yellow stamens.
Despite being a member of the nightshade family, Bittersweet (also known as 'Woody Nightshade') is one of the less toxic plants in this group, althought its berries are still poisonous. Found in hedgerows, gardens and even on shingle beaches, its purple flowers appear from May to September, and are followed by clusters of bright red berries.
How to identify
Bittersweet has oval, pointed leaves that are yellowy-green in colour. Purple flowers, with protruding yellow stamens, appear before the bright red, cherry tomato-like berries that hang in clusters.
Distribution
Widespread, but less common in Scotland.
Did you know?
The leaves of Bittersweet smell of burnt rubber when crushed.
