Hyoscyamus albus aka White Henbane

Hyoscyamus albus, or white henbane, belongs to the nightshade family, Solanaceae. It grows as an annual or biennial, reaching about 3 feet [0.9 metres]. Its native range includes Macaronesia and the Mediterranean region. It extends east to northern Iraq and the Arabian Peninsula. Kew places it in the subtropical climate zone. It is not native to Britain or Ireland. In the wild, it grows on dry, unused ground. It also occurs on walls and along field edges.

White henbane suits a hot, sunny spot with good drainage. It can grow in wall cracks and gaps between rocks. Fertile soil suits it, with alkaline ground the preferred choice. It also accepts mildly acid and neutral soils. Sandy, loamy and clay soils can all support it. Good drainage matters across these soil types. It needs full sun and does not grow in shade. It accepts dry or moist soil and grows in coastal areas.

Plants For A Future lists USDA hardiness zones 6–9. It also suggests possible survival down to about 14°F [−10°C]. That cold tolerance is uncertain, rather than a firm limit. The same source warns against growing it in colder British regions. In gardens, it can fit loose, informal planting schemes. It sheds seed freely, which can produce new plants nearby. This habit needs consideration when choosing a place for it. Seed offers a way to raise more plants. Fresh seed gives the best chance, since stored seed soon loses viability.

Seeds can go straight into their final growing site. Another option is to pot up seedlings while still small. The plant forms a long taproot as it grows. Moving older plants can disturb that root, which they tolerate poorly. Its short life and free seeding shape its garden use. A planting may renew itself through seedlings rather than lasting individual plants. Its preference for heat also helps guide the choice of site.

All parts are highly poisonous, and no edible uses are known. Poisoning can damage sight and cause convulsions or coma. Severe cases can end in fatal heart or breathing failure. Plants For A Future records medicinal uses for pain and muscle spasms. These records do not make it safe for home treatment. Its toxicity is a key limit on its garden use.