Nicandra physalodes, N. physaloides
Shoo fly plant. Thorn apple is sometimes (incorrectly) called Apple of Peru. It is much more likely to cause poisoning.
An erect plant, usually about 600 - 900mm high. Leaves hairless and toothed, stems often have purple steaks. Distinctive blue flowers growing from a large calyx. The fruit forms inside the calyx.
Full description - Flora of NZ
Black nightshade has similar, but smaller leaves. Cape gooseberry (Physalis peruviana) is similar but has yellow flowers and velvety leaves. It is very closely related and is probably of similar toxicity if any parts other than the ripe berries are eaten.
A common garden escape in the N. Island, rarer in the S. Island.
Not known. Low toxicity. As one of its names implies, it contains something which repels flies.
Grazing animals.
Bloat in sheep.
History of ingestion.
No specific treatment is known.
Cohen RD. Bloat in sheep grazing wild gooseberry, Nicandra physaloides. Australian Veterinary Journal. 46 (11):599, 1970
