20 May Weed Wednesday – Black Henbane
Posted at 08:00h
in Chewing Cud
This weeks Weed Wednesday feature is Black Henbane!
Black Henbane is a POISONOUS noxious weed showing up across Alberta, especially in disturbed areas like roadsides, yards, and pastures. Early detection is key!
How to identify it:
- Sticky, hairy leaves with a strong, unpleasant odor
- Pale yellow flowers with dark purple veins and centers
- Thick stems and a bushy growth habit
- Seed pods that look like small urns with a lid on top
Why it’s considered noxious:
- Highly toxic to humans, livestock, and pets
- Can contaminate forage and reduce pasture quality
- Spreads easily and establishes quickly in disturbed soil
- Difficult to control once established
If you think you’ve found Black Henbane or need help identifying it, take a clear photo and note the location. Contact your local Agricultural Fieldman for proper identification and management advice.
For more information on Black Henbane, visit: Black Henbane – Alberta Invasive Species Council
