Weeds that Look like Tomato Plants can be quite deceiving and it is important to know which is which!
Tomatoes have plenty of look-alikes in the botanical kingdom, which is why it is essential to know about weeds that look like tomato plants to ensure you have the right one in your garden!
Weeds that Look like Tomato Plants
1. Black Nightshade
Botanical Name: Solanum nigrum
The Black Nightshade is a poisonous plant often confused with edible nightshades due to their similar appearance. The leaves can confuse you at the early stages of the growth.
2. Jamaican Nightshade
3. Red Soda Apple
Botanical Name: Solanum viarum
This toxic plant may look like tomatoes from a distance but beware! Eating them in large quantities can cause upset stomach.
4. Litchi Tomato
5. Tropical Soda Apple
Botanical Name: Solanum viarum Dunal
The Tropical Soda Apple is an invasive weed native to South America. The fruits have a yellow color, which can confuse anyone!
6. Pepino Dulce
A small, sweet fruit native to South America and often used in desserts. You can grow it alongside tomatoes to have a variety in the kitchen!
7. Physalis
8. Carolina Wolfberry
Botanical Name: Lycium carolinianum
The Carolina Wolfberry is a small, edible berry that is native to the southeastern United States. Its red fruits look ditto like tomatoes!
9. Horse Nettle
10. Tamarillo
The Tamarillo is a tropical fruit with a tangy, sweet flavor that is often used in jams and chutneys. A great substitute for tomatoes for sure!
11. Currant Tomato
Botanical Name: Solanum pimpinellifolium
This tomato like plant is native to South America. It is just smaller in size but shares all the attributes with tomatoes. Taste and shape, included!