Nightshade (Solanum dulcamara)

Nightshade is an Eurasian species that has been widely introduced in North America where it grows in open habitats and disturbed sites. The entire plant, especially its unripe fruit, is toxic and potentially fatal. The red berries often attract people, especially children to eat them. The immature, green berries are even more toxic. The toxicity of nightshade varies with the growing conditions of plant. Symptoms of poisoning include abdominal pain, thirst, restlessness, flushing, and skin irritation. In severe cases, victims may experience vomiting, difficulty breathing, dilated pupils, diarrhea, bloody urine, loss of sensation, followed by death. Photo from Rock Creek, Oregon.