Solanum nigrum

RHS Plant Profile
black nightshade

Other common names

common nightshade, garden nightshade, gurkamei, houndberry, kangani, kanper makoo, mako, mokoi, morelle, poisonberry, wonderberry, petty morel

Annual Biennial

A fast-growing annual or biennial with variable habit, often found in woodland or areas of disturbed soil. Leaves are broadly ovate, sometimes with wavy edges. Flowers are small, white and star-shaped, with five petals and prominent yellow anthers, and followed by clusters of round dark green berries that are matt black when ripe

Position

Full sun, Partial shade

Soil Types

Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand

Max Height

1-1.5 metres

Max Spread

0.5-1 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
1 year
Max Spread
0.5-1 metres
Max Height
1-1.5 metres

Growing Conditions

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

Position

Full sun Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or South–facing or West–facing or North–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H3

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Solanaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
Yes
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Bushy
Potentially harmful
Pets (dogs): Harmful if eaten - for further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants
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

How to Grow

Cultivation

Most successful in moist, warm, fertile conditions, less so in dry soil or heavy shade. May overwinter in milder areas. Generally considered a weed for its ability to outcompete neighbouring plants, and for its role in hosting plant pests and diseases

Propagation

Propagates by seed. Seeds remain viable in the soil for some years; cultivating soil may increase seed germination, but enables seedlings to be removed when small

Pruning

Remove before flowering to prevent spread

Pests

Generally pest-free, but may provide an alternate host for a range of nematodes that may be harmful to other plants, as well as for thrips

Diseases

May be susceptible to honey fungus (rarely), tomato leaf mould and tomato viruses