Solanum elaeagnifolium Invasiveness under Semi-Arid Environmental Conditions in Tunisia

Abstract

Solanum elaeagnifolium, one of the world’s most widespread invasive weeds, thrives in the regions of Tunisia with a semi-arid climate. An enhanced understanding of its biological traits could be useful for its management. For this purpose, S. elaeagnifolium vegetative propagation, flowering, fruiting, and spread patterns were assessed under semi-arid environmental conditions at Chott Mariem (Tunisia) over three years (2013–2015). Our results revealed that S. elaeagnifolium showed an active vegetative growth phase during the spring (March–May). Thereafter, the plant stopped its vegetative growth in June–August in favor of flowering and fruiting. The vegetative growth resumed during September–October and declined in November, announcing its dormant period. Thanks to its vigorous rhizomatous system, S. elaeagnifolium was able to emit offshoots within a radius of 1.5 m from parent shoots by 30 months after its establishment. These findings could inform and improve dedicated management control options for S. elaeagnifolium. Silverleaf nightshade should be controlled before the full-flowering stage in spring and following the first autumnal rainfall to prevent vegetative propagation and fruiting.

Modeling the effect of temperature on rhizome sprouting in the invasive weed silverleaf nightshade (Solanum elaeagnifolium)

“…is a highly invasive weed that has spread rapidly worldwide, infesting both irrigated and rainfed agricultural systems (Karmezi et al 2022; Krigas et al 2023). Native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico, S. elaeagnifolium has been introduced into numerous countries, including Greece, Morocco, India, Tunisia, Egypt, and Australia, primarily due to human activities (Roberts and Florentine 2022; Sayari et al 2022; Uludag et al 2016). It is a deep-rooted perennial plant that reproduces sexually through seed production and asexually via rhizomes, enabling rapid colonization (Tataridas et al 2022a).…”