Wendland's Nightshade

solanum wendlandii

Also known as: ["Climbing Nightshade","Wendland's Solanum"]

Family: Solanaceae Genus: Solanum Category: Flowers

Overview

A vigorous, climbing vine in the nightshade family, known for its attractive purple flowers and toxic berries.

Benefits & Perks

["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Solanales
Family: Solanaceae
Genus: Solanum
Botanical Name: Solanum wendlandii

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright, airy space or outdoor garden bed with support for climbing
  • Suitable For:
    Collectors & Enthusiasts Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
  • Misting: every 2–3 days if grown indoors in dry conditions
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand for aeration.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: Every 2–3 months or as needed to maintain shape.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if overgrown.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct light; protect from intense sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil or drainage issues.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh light; move outdoors in spring/summer for stronger light.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering.

Soil

well-draining, fertile potting mix with added organic matter

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Use a mix designed for succulents or cacti; ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy garden soil.

Temperature

Prefers 65–80°F (18–27°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but avoid extremes.

Avoid placing near drafty windows; use room heaters if needed in winter; mist leaves in hot weather.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer

Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; adjust based on plant growth.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings in soil or water.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Select healthy stem.
  2. Cut below a node.
  3. Remove lower leaves.
  4. Apply hormone (optional).
  5. Plant in medium.
  6. Maintain moisture.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

Warm, humid, and bright indirect light; protect from direct sun.

Medium

Well-draining potting mix or water with occasional changes.

Hormone

Optional but recommended for faster rooting.

Timeline

Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining soil.

Quick Tips

Use stems with at least 2 nodes; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back tips for bushiness; cut stems just above a leaf node or bud.

Pruning Plan

Prune to control size, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead/damaged stems.

Tools

Clean pruning shears, gloves.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune during active growth; remove dead/diseased parts; shape as desired.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before the active growing season begins.

Pot Size

Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and health.

Checklist

Prepare new pot with drainage; trim roots if pot-bound; use fresh soil mix; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even saturation; water early in the morning to reduce evaporation; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to target the root zone precisely.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Yellowing leaves, wilting, or bud drop in cold; leaf scorch or stunted growth in heat.

Cold Stress

Slows growth, causes leaf drop, and may lead to root rot due to reduced metabolic activity.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid cold drafts; reduce watering.

Hot Stress

Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; growth may slow due to excessive transpiration.

Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging; use shade cloth outdoors.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check fertilizer type; dilute correctly; apply during growing season; monitor for signs of over/under-fertilization.

Fertilizing Method

Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); cease in fall/winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Solanum wendlandii may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Solanum wendlandii can be caused by water stress, root damage, or pest infestations, leading to reduced turgor pressure and impaired nutrient uptake.

Leaf spots on Solanum wendlandii may be caused by bacterial or fungal pathogens, leading to reduced photosynthetic efficiency and potential defoliation.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, can occur in Solanum wendlandii due to overwatering or fungal infections, leading to decay and potential plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Toxic

Cats are highly sensitive to the glycoalkaloids in Solanum wendlandii, which can lead to severe gastrointestinal and neurological effects. The berries pose a significant risk due to their concentrated toxicity.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea depression tremors weakness seizures
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves stems berries
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Ensure cats cannot access the plant. If ingestion is suspected, seek emergency veterinary care.
Dogs
Toxic

The glycoalkaloids present in Solanum wendlandii can cause significant gastrointestinal distress and neurological symptoms in dogs. The berries are particularly dangerous due to their high concentration of toxins.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy tremors difficulty breathing seizures
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves stems berries
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep dogs away from the plant. If ingestion is suspected, contact a veterinarian immediately.
Humans
Toxic

Solanum wendlandii contains solanine and other glycoalkaloids, which are toxic compounds that can disrupt cellular processes, leading to gastrointestinal and neurological effects. The berries, in particular, are highly toxic when ingested.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting diarrhea abdominal pain dizziness confusion slowed heart rate
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves stems berries
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep all parts of the plant out of reach of children and avoid ingestion. If accidental ingestion occurs, seek medical attention immediately.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Solanum wendlandii toxic to pets?

A: Yes, it is toxic to both dogs and cats.

Q: How should I care for Solanum wendlandii?

A: Provide full sun to partial shade, well-drained soil, and regular watering.

Q: Does Solanum wendlandii attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds with its flowers and berries.

Quick Reference
Family: Solanaceae
Care: moderate
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["collectors/enthusiasts","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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