Black Nightshade
Solanum nigrum
A common herbaceous annual or short-lived perennial characterized by ovate leaves with wavy margins, small white star-shaped flowers with yellow centers, and small green berries that turn black when ripe.
- Light
- Full sun to partial shade; 4-8 hours of direct light daily.
- Water
- Moderate; prefers consistently moist but well-drained soil. It is moderately drought-tolerant once established.
- Growth
- Upright, branching herbaceous plant growing 30-60 cm (1-2 feet) tall. It has a relatively fast growth rate.
Care instructions
This plant is often considered a weed and requires little care. It thrives in disturbed soils with full to partial sun. If cultivated, provide moderate water and well-draining soil. No fertilizer is usually necessary as it is highly adaptable.
Growing details
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; 4-8 hours of direct light daily.
Watering
Moderate; prefers consistently moist but well-drained soil. It is moderately drought-tolerant once established.
Soil
Adaptable to various soil types, but prefers nutrient-rich, moist, loamy soils with a neutral pH (6.0-7.5).
Hardiness zone
Typically grown as an annual in USDA zones 4-11, but can be a perennial in frost-free climates.
Growth habit
Upright, branching herbaceous plant growing 30-60 cm (1-2 feet) tall. It has a relatively fast growth rate.
Bloom season
Summer to early autumn; produces clusters of small white five-petaled flowers with prominent yellow anthers.
Propagation
Easily propagates by seed, which are often dispersed by birds. Seeds germinate readily in warm, disturbed earth.
Common pests & issues
Susceptible to common nightshade pests like flea beetles, aphids, and tobacco hornworms. May host potato virus or late blight.
Similar species
Often confused with Atropa belladonna (Deadly Nightshade), which has larger, bell-shaped purple flowers and single berries instead of clusters. Also similar to Solanum americanum.