Solanum rostratum [Buffalo Burr]

[Andrea B.]

Blum, A.G. (2013) Solanum rostratum Dunal (Solanaceae) Buffalo Burr. Flowers photographed in ultraviolet and visible light. http://www.ultraviol...m-buffalo-burr/

 

Boyce Thompson Arboretum, Superior, Arizona, USA

23 April 2013

Wildflower

 

Synonyms:

• Androcera rostrata (Dunal) Rydb.
  
• Solanum cornutum auct. non Lam.
  
• Horned Nightshade
  
• Kansas Thistle, Mexican Thistle, Texas Thistle
  
• Spiny Nightshade
  

Comment:

Found throughout the US and considered a noxious weed in many states, S. rostratum does supply seeds for two important game birds, quail and doves. It is drought resistant and can be found growing in the worst soils. The vicious burs keep humans and cattle from trampling the plant. Note the longer fifth anther which is darker than the other four.

The anthers, buds, burrs and central rib of each petal are UV-black. The corolla is UV-reflective.

 

Reference:

1. Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center (2014) Solanum rostratum. U. of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX. http://www.wildflowe...p?id_plant=SORO

 

Equipment [Nikon D600-broadband + Nikon 105mm f/4.5 UV-Nikkor]

 

Visible Light [f/11 for 1/320" @ ISO 200 in Sunlight with Baader UVIR-Block Filter]

 

Ultraviolet Light [f/8 for 1/60" @ ISO 400 with SB-14 UV-modified Flash and Baader UV-Pass Filter]