Species nightshade

nightshade

Solanum crispum

Nightshade (Solanum crispum) is a shrubby, perennial plant found in temperate regions around the world. It has small, white flowers and edible purple or black berries. Its leaves are alternate and are armed with needle-like spines. All forms of Solanum crispum contain toxic compounds which can cause illness, so the leaves and berries should not be eaten. Despite the health warnings, nightshade is still used as a medicinal plant in some countries due to its purported ability to treat a variety of ailments. It is commonly grown in cultivated gardens as an ornamental or even for a food source for local wildlife. Its unusual blooms will brighten up any garden.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Cutting,Layering Propagation,Grafting Propagation,Division,Seed Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

9 - 11

Flowers:

Dark blue with yellow stamens Flowers

Sun:

Full sun,part shade

Fruits:

Fruits Ready In Fall

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Moderate

Poisonous To Humans:

Yes

Poisonous To Pets:

Yes

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Nightshade (Solanum crispum) prefers moist, but not wet soil. Water every 1-2 weeks, depending on the outdoor temperature and the amount of sun the plant is getting. During the growing season (spring to fall), you can water more often if the soil is drying out quickly. For containers, you can also water when the surface of the soil feels dry to the touch. In winter, water only when the soil is almost dry to prevent root damage. Nightshade (Solanum crispum) benefits from a deep soak every once in a while rather than light watering more often.

sunlight

Sunlight is an essential element for Nightshade (Solanum crispum) plants. The plants should receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day in spring and summer, ideally early morning or late afternoon sunlight. In the United States, the south side of a building and open areas should receive the most direct sunlight. In the winter, the plants should receive at least 4 hours of direct sunlight a day. It is important to note that Nightshade plants need protection from hot, direct afternoon sun during the summer months.

pruning

Nightshade (Solanum crispum) does best when pruned in early spring. Pruning should be kept to a minimum as this is a slow-growing and short-lived perennial. Pruning should focus on reducing the size of the plant and removing dead branches. Branches that are less than 1 year old should be cut back by 1 third, while older branches should be cut back to just above a new shoot or bud. Also, dead or diseased wiry stems should be removed. Finally, trim away any branches that are growing into each other. Pruning Nightshade can help to prevent overcrowding and encourage the plant to grow fuller and bushier.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Harvest Fruit

Harvesting of Solanum crispum typically begins in July and continues through October.

Starts Flowering

Nightshade typically starts flowering in late spring or early summer, usually between May and July.

Starts Flowering

Nightshade typically starts flowering in late spring or early summer, usually between May and July.

Harvest Fruit

Harvesting of Solanum crispum typically begins in July and continues through October.

Hardiness Map