Black Nightshade
solanum nigrum
Also known as: ["Garden Nightshade","Solanum album","Solanum humile"]
Overview
A small, annual herbaceous plant with dark green leaves and small white flowers followed by black berries.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Solanales |
| Family: | Solanaceae |
| Genus: | Solanum |
| Botanical Name: | Solanum nigrum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: garden bed or container in a location with good air circulation
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, fertile soil with organic matter; cactus mix can work if amended with compost.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed; lightly prune after flowering or in early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); adjust for intense summer sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to direct sun; protect from harsh midday sun; provide shade during extreme heat.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plants for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-drained, fertile loam with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in moderate warmth.
Protect from frost; shield from intense summer heat; maintain moderate indoor temperatures.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Dilute fertilizer to half strength; avoid feeding wilted plants; flush soil occasionally to prevent buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed; stem cuttings are faster and more reliable.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in hormone (optional).
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can root in water initially.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 2–4 weeks; establish in new pot within 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain humidity with a plastic bag.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushiness; trim leggy stems; remove yellow or damaged leaves.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or diseased growth; shape plant for better air circulation; encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves, disinfectant.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead/diseased parts; shape plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and health.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare new soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain freely; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold; yellowing leaves in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaf discoloration; vulnerable to frost damage in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; cover with frost cloth in cold spells; avoid overwatering in cool conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; reduced flowering and fruiting in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak sun; increase humidity; water deeply but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute correctly; apply during active growth; avoid overfertilization.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during growing season; reduce or stop in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are sensitive to the glycoalkaloids in Solanum nigrum, which can lead to severe gastrointestinal and neurological effects. Even small amounts can be harmful.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe glycoalkaloids in Solanum nigrum can cause significant gastrointestinal upset and neurological symptoms in dogs. Toxicity is dose-dependent.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicSolanum nigrum contains solanine and other glycoalkaloids, which can cause gastrointestinal and neurological disturbances. The berries are particularly toxic when unripe or in large quantities.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Solanum nigrum edible?
A: While some parts are used in traditional cooking, it is generally considered mildly toxic and should be consumed with caution.
Q: Does Solanum nigrum attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees and butterflies due to its flowers.
Q: How easy is it to grow?
A: It is an easy plant to grow, often thriving in disturbed soils with minimal care.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Solanaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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