Pictures of Flowers Belladonna Pictures and Belladonna Kind

By Pictures of flowers

on February 13, 2009

Pictures of Flowers Belladonna Pictures and Belladonna Kind

Belladonna is a perennial herbaceous plant, which is well known for atropine drug. The drug is produced from the foliage, which along with the berries are extremely toxic and possess hallucinogenic properties. The species are native to Europe, North Africa and Western Asia. It has also been naturalized in few parts of North America where it can often be found in shady, moist areas with limestone rich soil. The name comes from the Italian word, which means beautiful woman. In the past, it was used by women to enlarge the pupils of their eyes.

Belladonna is also often grown in gardens for its beauty. The plant grows about 2-3 tall with drooping bell shaped flowers that are bluish-purple or dull red. Many people have died ignorantly eating belladonna berries. Belladonna is an important antidote for poisoning with certain insecticides and mushrooms. Belladonna is sometimes used for relief from cough and stomach problems. It is also used for relaxing the eye muscles and expanding the pupil.