Common Henbane
Hyoscyamus niger
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
12"–36" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
MA
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Common henbane is a tall annual herb with funky bell-shaped flowers that bloom from late spring through fall. This plant is extremely toxic to humans and animals if ingested. It has a somewhat weedy appearance and can self-seed readily.
In an HOA neighborhood
Common Henbane takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: moderate. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
- Highly toxic plant poses serious safety liability
- Weedy appearance looks unkempt
- Can spread aggressively by self-seeding
Wildlife value
The flowers attract bees and beetles during its long blooming period from May through September.
Common questions
- How much sun does Common Henbane need?
- Common Henbane grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Common Henbane bloom?
- Common Henbane blooms in May, June, July, August, and September.
- Where is Common Henbane native?
- Common Henbane (Hyoscyamus niger) is native to MA, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Common Henbane attract?
- Common Henbane draws bees and beetles.
- Is Common Henbane HOA-friendly?
- Common Henbane takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Common Henbane? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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