Species deadly nightshade

deadly nightshade

Solanum dulcamara

Also Known As - European bittersweet
Deadly nightshade (Solanum dulcamara) is an incredibly toxic perennial plant native to Europe, North Africa, and Western Asia. It grows up to five feet tall and bears purple and yellow flowers followed by red fruit. Although all parts of the plant are poisonous, the berries have been used as a sedative in small doses. Its dangerous effects on humans include respiratory issues, seizures, and even death. In certain cultures, its properties have been explored in folk medicine, though generally its use is discouraged.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Seed Propagation,Greenwood Cuttings

Hardiness Zone:

4

Flowers:

Showy, Violet, Blue, Yellow Flowers In Spring

Sun:

full sun

Fruits:

purple,black Fruits In Autumn Ready In

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green,purple

Growth Rate:

Moderate

Maintenance:

Low

Poisonous To Humans:

Yes

Poisonous To Pets:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Invasive:

Yes

Tropical:

Yes

watering

Deadly nightshade (Solanum dulcamara) should be watered as frequently as necessary to keep the soil moist. During the warmer months, it is recommended to water every 5-7 days. During the colder months, the plant will need to be watered no more than once or twice a month. A good way to check on the soil moisture is to feel the top layer of the soil with your fingertip. If the soil feels dry, it’s time to water. Make sure to water deeply each time, allowing the water to penetrate all the way down to the roots.

sunlight

Deadly nightshade prefers full sun in order to flower and produce fruit. If planted in partial sun, the plant may still flower but it will not bear fruit. When grown outdoors, deadly nightshade should receive sunlight from early morning to late afternoon. For best results, it should be planted in a location that receives full, direct sunlight for at least 4 hours during the day. This will allow the plant to get as much light as possible, and encourage its growth.

pruning

Deadly nightshade (Solanum dulcamara) is a climbing or creeping plant. Pruning should be done in early spring to encourage maximum flowering and to keep it neat and tidy in appearance. Start by cutting the stems at the base of the plant and then work your way up the stem, removing unwanted stems. Prune lightly to avoid over-pruning. New shoots may then be pruned back to maintain a neat appearance and keep the plant from spreading too much. Prune the top of the stem once it gets too tall. This will encourage bushier growth and more flowers. Pruning frequency may vary depending on the desired look and size of the plant.

Season

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

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

Starts Flowering

Deadly nightshade typically starts flowering in May.

Harvest Fruit

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

Hardiness Map