Solanum malacoxylon Sendtner: a toxic plant in Argentina

Information is presented on the growth habit, the distribution and ecology of Solanum malacoxylon, as well as the effect of its consumption by grazing animals in the plains of Buenos Aires Province, Argentina. It has been found that this plant causes a disease known as "Enteque seco" which is characterized by the calcification of soft tissues, especially heart, kidneys and lungs. The nature of the active compound is not completely known but it appears to be a Vitamin D-like substance or its metabolites. The plant is highly toxic for cattle and causes considerable economic losses in one of the most important meat production areas of Argentina.