The funnel-shaped flowers all turn to one side on the upper stem, forming a loose cluster somewhat like an ear of grain. They are a dirty yellow with brown or purple veins. The seeds are enclosed in a bell-shaped lidded capsule, which opens when ripe. The active principles found in the leaves are similar to those of belladonna. The whole plant is very poisonous.
Henbane prefers light, well-drained soil in sun.
Propagate by seed in spring or autumn. Potato beetle may cause damage. The flower tops and leaves are collected in summer for use in dry and liquid extracts, medicated oil, and tinctures. Henbane earned its common name from the lethal effect it has on poultry. It was widely used as a sedative by the ancient Egyptians, Babylonians, Greeks and Romans, and in the Middle Ages was one of the ingredients of the dreaded soporific sponge .