Solanaceae

Non-woody (herbaceous) to woody plants and vines with 5 fused petals that form shapes like wheels, bells, funnels or tubes, and have prominent fold lines (plicate). Well known as food plants (Potato, Tomato, Eggplant, Peppers, Goji Berry), showy garden plants (Petunias, Nicotinia, Chinese Lantern) or other commercial crops (Tobacco). All species that have been found in New Brunswick are introduced (some escaped from cultivation), and flowers and/or fruit are usually required for identification.

Flowers in cymes (those at the top of the plant and the ends of branches usually bloom before those lower down). Sepals 5, usually fused, persistent. Stamens 5, attached to the petal tube and alternating with the petal lobes. Carpels usually 2, fused; stigma lobes 2. Fruit a capsule or berry.

Leaves alternate and spiral, sometimes deeply lobed. Stipules absent. Vascular bundles unusual in having internal phloem.

Commonly produce various chemicals (alkaloids) that have an effect on humans and/or animals and be used as medicines, or act as drugs or poisons. Many species are unpleasant-smelling and/or hairy and feel clammy when touched.