Solanum nigrum aka Black Nightshade

Taxonomy

Solanum nigrum, also known as European black nightshade or blackberry nightshade, is a flowering plant native to Eurasia but has been introduced in various regions including the Americas, Australasia, and South Africa. It is often mistakenly referred to as other "black nightshade" species. This fast-growing annual or biennial plant can be found in woodlands or areas with disturbed soil. Its leaves are broadly ovate with wavy edges, and its small white star-shaped flowers have five petals and yellow anthers. After flowering, clusters of round dark green berries appear, turning matt black when ripe. In some areas, the ripe berries and cooked leaves of certain edible strains are used as food, and various parts of the plant are utilized in traditional medicine. Black nightshade has a long history, being mentioned by Pliny the Elder and other herbalists, and has been recorded in deposits from the Paleolithic and Mesolithic era in ancient Britain. Carl Linnaeus described six varieties of Solanum nigrum in 1753. While it is native to most of England, it becomes rarer in the north and is localized in Wales. It is a troublesome weed in agriculture and horticulture, growing on a wide range of soils but favoring nitrogen-rich soil. Black nightshade is known for its variability, and certain populations have even developed resistance to the herbicide atrazine.

Common names

Black Nightshade, Common Nightshade, Poisonberry

How to care for Black Nightshade

Difficulty

Caring for Black Nightshade is a breeze, as it is highly adaptable and forgiving to minor neglect.

Water

Black Nightshade should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Black Nightshade loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

Black Nightshade requires abundant, bright, and direct light to thrive. The best placement for this plant is within one foot of a window to ensure it receives enough light. If you live in an area with more extreme weather, such as hot summers or cold winters, you may need to adjust the placement of the plant accordingly. During hot summer months, it is important to place the plant away from full sun, as this can cause the leaves to yellow or burn. During cold winter months, it is best to move the plant closer to the window to take advantage of the extra light that can help it survive. By keeping an eye on the current weather in your area, you can make sure your Common Nightshade is always in the right place to thrive.

Toxicity

There is no verified data on the toxicity of this plant in the records of Ploi. If any person, including yourself, a family member, or a pet, consume plant material with an uncertain toxicity level, it is advisable to seek the advice of a healthcare expert.

Humidity

No extra humidity is necessary for the Black Nightshade. Absorption of water by plants is primarily done through their roots, and soil watering is the most effective method to provide humidity to your plants.

Region of origin

Black Nightshade’s native range is Worldwide.


More info:
Wikipedia