watermelon vine nightshade , scientifically make out as Solanum citrullifolium , is a fascinating species of nightshade that bears a striking resemblance to watermelon plant . The leaves of this nightshade are the main feature of speech that gives it its unwashed name , as they pretty resemble the leaf of a watermelon works . However , it is crucial to note that the melon - bequeath nightshade , which is a dissimilar species call Solanum heterodoxum Dunal , actually has leafage that close resemble those of a typical melon plant life .
When it comes to the watermelon vine nightshade , its leaves are the star of the show . They are tumid and profoundly lobed , similar to the leaves of a watermelon plant life . The lobes give the leaves a unique soma , almost like the finger of a bridge player . The leaf blade is typically unripe in semblance , and the lobe may have atypical serrations along their edges . The overall leaf arrangement is alternate , stand for that the leaf emerge one at a time along the stem .
In terms of sizing , the leave of the watermelon vine nightshade can vary , but they are generally magnanimous than the leaf of many other nightshade species . Some leave can develop up to 10 inch long , depending on the specific conditions and due date of the plant . This big size contributes to the ocular similarity with watermelon plant , as watermelon leave of absence are also known for their with child size of it .
Another interesting aspect of the watermelon nightshade is its growth habit . It is a sprawling , herbaceous perennial works that can touch heights of up to 3 to 4 foot . The stems are usually immature , slightly woody at the base , and can be brood in little hair . As the plant matures , it may spring up a sprawling or vining habit , often requiring support or trellising to keep it upright .
When it make out to the flowers and fruits of the watermelon nightshade , they also have distinctive characteristics . The flowers are little and virtuoso - determine , typically bloodless or wan purple in color . They are arranged in clusters , known as blossoming , which emerge from the leaf axils or at the ends of theme . These clusters can be quite showy , bestow a touch of beauty to the works .
As for the yield , they are small , round berry that are initially green and then call on yellow as they ripen . The berry can be quite eye - catching , resemble miniature watermelons ( hence the common name ) . However , it is of import to note that the fruits of the Citrullus vulgaris nightshade are not edible and should not be devour as they can be toxic .
In my personal experience with the watermelon nightshade , I have regain it to be a unequaled and challenging addition to a garden . Its distinctive leaf adds an interesting ocular factor , and the clusters of flowers and small fruit can be quite witching . However , it is of import to exercise circumspection and avoid ingesting any function of the plant , as nightshade specie can moderate toxic compounds .
The watermelon vine nightshade , or Solanum citrullifolium , is a nightshade species that resembles watermelon flora due to its large , deeply lobed folio . It is a sprawling perennial with green stems , small principal - shaped blossom , and belittled pear-shaped berries that resemble miniature watermelons . While visually charm , it should be noted that this plant is not edible and caveat should be work out .
Caroline Bates
