Carolina Horsenettle (Solanum carolinense)

Carolina Horsenettle is in the nightshade family which includes Tomatoes, Tobacco and Eggplants. Horsenettle is native to the US and all parts of the plant are toxic to people, cows and horses. It has a deep growing taproot and prickly spines that are on the underside of leaves. Both of these characteristics make it difficult to control with hand weeding. Livestock generally avoid eating this weed as the spines are uncomfortable. This weed is a warm season perennial that produces small yellow berries from flowers that are either white or lavender in color.

Multiple herbicides can control Carolina Horsenettle and a variety are labeled for use in fields, pastures and lawns. Glyphosate can be effective if used to spot treat this weed. Glyphosate will kill your lawn or desirable plants if they come in contact with this chemical. Read the label to determine if the herbicide you are planning on applying is labeled for use in your situation. Always read and apply according to the pesticide label as the label is the law. Dicamba, Metsulfuron and 2,4-D can be used in pastures to control horsenettle but will kill beneficial clover. If you have any questions about pesticide labels or Carolina Horsenettle, please contact your local Cooperative Extension Office.