Atropa belladonna is a perennial plant, and its fruits are ripe in late summer and early fall, usually from August to October.
deadly nightshade
Atropa belladonna
Deadly nightshade (Atropa belladonna) is one of the most fascinating plants in the world. It is a perennial herbaceous shrub native to Europe and North Africa, but it can also be found in some parts of the Middle East. Its ripe black berries are highly toxic, yet depending on dosage, some of its compounds have been used as a medicine for centuries. Historically, it was used as a topical analgesic, antispasmodic, and mydriatic for pain relief, as well as for treating insomnia, headaches, and even muscle paralysis. Its beauty should not be overlooked either, as the colorful purple and white flowers adorning its long stems add a captivating touch to the landscape. Deadly nightshade is truly an amazing species.
Cycle:
Herbaceous Perennial
Watering:
Average
Propagation:
Seed Propagation,Layering Propagation,Division,Cutting
Hardiness Zone:
5 - 9
Flowers:
Dull purple with green tinges Flowers
Sun:
full sun,part shade
Fruits:
black Fruits Ready In Fall
Leaf:
Yes
Leaf Color:
green
Growth Rate:
Low
Maintenance:
Moderate
Poisonous To Humans:
Yes
Poisonous To Pets:
Yes
Care Level:
High
watering
Deadly nightshade requires soaking soil with water every 7 to 10 days. Watering should not be too excessive, so the soil should not be overwatered with water being left standing. When watering, water the base of the plant, avoiding the leaves, and water until the top inch or 2 of soil is damp. For optimal growth and flowering, reduce watering in the winter months, and make sure the soil is completely dry before watering again. Too much water can damage the plant and its roots, so it is important to monitor soil moisture levels and water appropriately.
sunlight
Deadly Nightshade (Atropa belladonna) requires at least 6-8 hours of full sunlight every day and should be kept in an area that is not too hot or too cold. It prefers a temperature between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit and does best in abundant light. During the spring and summer months, Deadly Nightshade should be placed in a sunny place outdoors that is sheltered from wind to ensure optimal growth. In the winter months, when sunlight is less intense and the days are shorter, move the plant indoors to a well-lit area; however, supplementing its light with grow lights may be necessary.
pruning
Deadly nightshade should be pruned regularly throughout the growing season. Pruning should be done in early spring, when the plants are starting to grow. Focus on thinning out any spindly or weak stems to encourage a fuller bushier shape. Any dead, diseased, or damaged foliage should also be pruned away. Summer pruning is typically done to maintain the shape of the bush and to reduce the size if necessary. It is also a good idea to remove any flowers fading away as this helps direct the plants energy elsewhere. After the growing season is over, a final pruning of the plant should take place to keep the size in check as well as take out any dead, diseased, or fading foliage.
Season
Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Harvest Fruit
Starts Flowering
Atropa belladonna typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.
Starts Flowering
Atropa belladonna typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.
Harvest Fruit
Atropa belladonna is a perennial plant, and its fruits are ripe in late summer and early fall, usually from August to October.
