Scopalia (Belladonna Scopola, Japanese Belladonna)
Scopolia carniolica
Family: Solanaceae TOXIC
Herbaceous perennial. Native to Croatia. The flower
of this plant is much like that of Belladonna, while the fruit and dehiscent
capsule are more similar to Henbane. Scopalia is slightly higher
in total alkaloid content than Belladonna, and no
part of the plant should ever, ever be taken internally or suffer
potentially grave consequences. Keep it away from children, pets,
and would-be shamanistic adventurers. Historically, the plant was
used as a mydriatic (dilator of the pupils) and cerebral sedative, for
treating dementia and addiction. It was also employed as an early
anaesthetic, in combination with morphine, to produce what was euphemistically
called “Twilight Sleep,” a sleep from which some never awoke.
Cultivation: Extra Care. Best results will be obtained
by sowing the seeds outdoors in fall, midwinter or very early spring.
Expect germination as the ground warms. Space plants 1 foot apart.
Prefers sloping, rocky and moist soil in partial shade to full sun.
Flowers violet to 1 foot tall.
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