A low, native, annual species growing one or two feet high in rich, shaded grounds from July to October. It is usually smooth, much-branched, and spreading. The thin, pointed-oval leaf is wavy-toothed, and is either narrowed or rounded at the base. The small, white flowers are similar in structure to those of the purple-flowered species, and the fruit is round, juicy and black. There is some question as to the extent of the poisonous qualities which have been attributed to this plant and its fruit. It is employed in medicine, and in the Isles of France and Bourbon as well as in the Hawaiian Islands, the leaves are said to be extensively used as food, being boiled like spinach. In the Dakotas, according to Professor Hansen, this plant is known as the Stubbleberry, and the fruit is much used for pies and preserves. The Night-shade is extremely variable, and ranges from the Atlantic to the Pacific, and from Nova Scotia to the Northwest Territory and south to the Gulf States. It is also a widely distributed and common plant in nearly all countries.