Black Henbane Seeds – Hyoscyamus niger

WARNING: Black henbane is highly poisonous. All parts of the plant, including the seeds, are toxic. Do not ingest or use in homemade remedies, extracts, oils, or salves. Do not grow where children or pets can access it.

Black henbane (Hyoscyamus niger) is an unusual ornamental with gray-green foliage and yellow flowers that may show purple centers and intricate purple veining. Its arching flower stems and distinctive seed capsules give it a striking botanical character.

For an experienced grower maintaining a secure ornamental collection, henbane offers a close-up study in contrasting textures: soft-looking foliage, stout stems, and delicately patterned flowers. It is not suitable for an edible herb garden or a family play area.

What You Receive

Seeds for ornamental planting, available in these packet sizes:

• 10 seeds
• 25 seeds
• 100 seeds
• 300 seeds

Select your preferred seed count from the size options. This listing is for seeds, not live plants.

Plant Characteristics

• Botanical name: Hyoscyamus niger.
• Life cycle: Annual or biennial; plants from the same seed stock may develop differently.
• Height: Approximately 2–4 feet, depending on growth form and conditions.
• Foliage: Gray-green, often toothed and covered with soft hairs; foliage may feel sticky.
• Flowers: Yellow blooms around 1 inch across, sometimes with purple centers or veining. Markings vary.
• Flowering: Generally summer, with timing varying by growth form and local conditions.
• Scent: Strong and potentially unpleasant.

Annual and Biennial Growth

Annual plants may flower in their first year and are often smaller, reaching around 2 feet. Biennial plants generally form a leaf rosette in the first year, followed by taller, more branched flower stems in the second. Flower color and leaf characteristics can vary between plants.

Sowing and Establishment

Sow in fall or early spring, following local seasonal conditions and the instructions supplied with your seeds. Scatter seed on the soil surface and press it into contact with the soil. Seeds can be started in pots or sown directly in a suitable, securely managed planting area.

Germination can be irregular and may take several months in some cases. If moving seedlings, keep the root ball intact rather than transplanting bare-root plants.

Responsible Garden Placement

Henbane may self-seed. Monitor the planting and prevent unwanted spread. Keep seeds clearly labeled and securely stored away from food, children, and animals. Use gloves when handling plants and wash hands afterward.

Ornamental use only. No medicinal benefits or safe home-preparation methods are claimed. If exposure or ingestion is suspected, contact a poison control center or veterinarian immediately.