Solanum sisymbriifolium

RHS Plant Profile
sticky nightshade

Other common names

morelle de Balbis, red buffalo bur, viscid nightshade

Annual Biennial

A tender perennial, grown as an annual, with very deeply-lobed leaves covered in sticky hairs; both stems and leaves are armed with red, spiny prickles. Large, white or pale blue flowers are produced in clusters all summer, followed by green, spiny fruit cases that split to reveal bright red fruit which are edible but insipid

Position

Full sun

Soil Types

Clay, Loam, Sand

Max Height

1-1.5 metres

Max Spread

0.5-1 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
1–2 years
Max Spread
0.5-1 metres
Max Height
1-1.5 metres

Growing Conditions

Clay Loam Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full sun
Aspect
West–facing or South–facing
Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H2

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Solanaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Bushy
Genus
Solanum can be annuals, perennials, evergreen or deciduous shrubs or twining climbers, with simple or pinnnately lobed leaves and star- or bowl-shaped, 5-lobed flowers with prominent stamens, followed by fleshy fruits
Name Status
Correct
Plant Range
South America

How to Grow

Cultivation

Grow in moist but well-drained soil in neutral or slightly alkaline soil in full sun. Is being trialled as a trap crop for potato cyst nematode. May have the potential to become a nuisance as seeds prolifically

Propagation

Propagate by seed

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Architectural
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Wildlife gardens
  • Flower borders and beds

Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

May be susceptible to honey fungus (rarely)