Black nightshade
Also known as
Common nightshade, Garden nightshade, Petty morel, Hound’s berry, European black nightshade
Keep this plant’s care guide close at hand.
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Solanum nigrum, commonly called black nightshade, is an annual to short-lived perennial in the tomato family (Solanaceae). It typically reaches 20–80 cm tall with soft, branching stems, ovate leaves, and small, star-shaped white flowers bearing prominent yellow anthers. The berries develop from green to glossy black (occasionally purple) when ripe and occur in drooping clusters. Native to Eurasia, it has become naturalized across temperate and tropical regions worldwide, thriving in disturbed soils, field margins, and urban lots. While some cultures blanch and cook certain local varieties as leafy vegetables, the plant contains glycoalkaloids (notably solanine), which vary by genotype, ripeness, and growing conditions. Unripe fruits and raw foliage can be toxic and should not be ingested. For cultivation, it prefers moist, well-drained, moderately fertile soil and performs in full sun to partial shade. It self-seeds readily, making it easy to maintain yet potentially weedy. Accurate identification is essential, as it is frequently confused with other nightshades, including the far more toxic deadly nightshade (Atropa belladonna).
Taxonomy
Properties & Requirements
How to care for Black nightshade
Water
Keep the soil evenly moist but never waterlogged. In-ground plants typically need about 1–2 inches (25–50 mm) of water per week, including rainfall. Water deeply at the base in the morning, allowing the top 2–3 cm to dry between waterings. Containers dry faster; check moisture with a finger test and water until excess drains. Use mulch to reduce evaporation and prevent splash, which helps limit foliar disease.
Light
Full sun to light shade. Provide 6–8 hours of direct sun for best flowering and fruiting in mild climates. In hot regions, morning sun with dappled afternoon shade prevents heat stress and preserves blooms. It tolerates partial shade (as low as 4 hours of sun), but growth may become lanky and fruit set reduced. Indoor or balcony culture requires the brightest possible exposure and occasional rotation for even growth.
Nutrients
Black nightshade grows well in moderately fertile soil. Before planting, incorporate well-rotted compost to improve structure and steady nutrition. If needed, feed with a balanced fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) at half strength once after establishment, and again at first flowering. Avoid excessive nitrogen, which encourages lush foliage, suppresses fruiting, and may increase glycoalkaloids. In containers, use a slow-release, balanced fertilizer and refresh the top layer of potting mix mid-season.
Temperature
A warm-season plant, Solanum nigrum grows best between 20–30°C. Seeds germinate reliably at 15–25°C. It is frost-sensitive: growth stalls near 10°C and foliage can be damaged by light frost. Prolonged heat above 35°C stresses plants and may reduce flowering; provide afternoon shade and consistent moisture in hot climates. For container-grown plants, move indoors or protect when night temperatures threaten to drop below 5°C.
