Solanum

( soh - LAY - num )

At-A-Glance Information

This large genus of flowering ornamental and crop plants includes Tomatoes, Potatoes, Eggplants, and other beautiful species. Horse Nettles are also included in this genus. Commonly called Nightshades, these plants take on a wide range of growth habits, including shrubs, vines, trees, and subshrubs. Take care when planting these flowering, fruiting plants in the garden, as some plant parts are toxic to humans and pets when consumed. 

Solanum Species and Varietals

The genus Solanum is the largest member of the plant family Solanaceae, and includes between 1,500 and 2,000 species. Recent genetic evidence has led to the previous separate genera Lycopersicon, Cyphomandra, Normania, and Triguera being added to Solanum. The genus Lycianthes, although it contains similar-looking plants, was kept as its own genus. Solanum plants can be grown in all zones (to find your zone, click here: Zone Map).

Solanum abutiloides (Dwarf Tomarillo)
​This species is endemic to Argentina and Bolivia, and is a weedy plant that thrives in poor soils on stream banks and in scrub lands. These plants quickly mature into shrubs that top out at about 30 feet tall, although they are usually seen much smaller in cultivation. Small white flowers fade to reveal small fruits that mature to orange when ripe. Unripe fruits are mildly toxic.

Solanum acaule (Wild Potato)
Native to Peru, Bolivia, northwestern Argentina and northern Chile, this species is studied for its resistance to Potato Blight, frost, pests, and other common ailments of commercially grown potato species. Berries and foliage are toxic if ingested.

Solanum acerifolium (Maple-Leaved Nightshade)
This species of small flowering shrubs was first formally described by botanist Michel Felix Dunal in 1816. Forms an upright plant with foliage covered in dark hairs and prickles. Fruits have a green and white marbled pattern, and each fruit holds about 60 seeds. Leaves and unripe fruits of these plants are toxic if ingested.

Solanum aculeastrum (Soda Apple, Sodaapple Nightshade, Goat Apple, Poison Apple, Bitter Apple)
This species is native to Africa. Flowers bloom from September through July in the plants' native range, and are followed by highly poisonous berries. Due to their thorns, this species is used as a livestock-corralling shrub, and is also used as a source of saponin (for making soaps). Do not consume; this species is poisonous.

Solanum aculeatissimum (Dutch Eggplant, Love Apple)
Native to Africa and South America, this species produces white flowers in spring and summertime, followed by inedible green and yellow marbled fruits. Do not consume; the fruits are toxic to both humans and livestock.

Solanum aethiopicum (Bitter Tomato, Ethiopian Eggplant, Nakati, Ethiopian Nightshade, Garden Eggs, Pumpkin-On-A-Stick, Mock Tomato, Khamen Akhaba)
Ripened fruits of these plants look like a cross between an eggplant and a tomato, and is eaten both raw and cooked. Leaves are more nutritious, and are also commonly eaten in the plant's native range. These plants can grow year-round in warmer climates and produce a large crop. Fruits on dried branches are sometimes sold in grocery stores around Halloween and Thanksgiving. Varieties of this species include 'Turkish Orange' ('Turkish Italian'), 'Sweet Red', 'Small Ruffled Red' ('Red Ruffles', 'Hmong Red'), 'Gilo' ('Jilo', 'Scarlet Eggplant'), and 'Liberian Eggplant'.

Solanum africanum (Drunken Rope, Drunken Berry)
This species is native to South Africa, where it grows in coastal dune habitats and flowers throughout the year. Blooms are lavender to purple with purple stems and yellow centers. These plants reach about 10 feet tall at maturity. Leafing stems and shoots seem to stick out of the plant in random directions, hence the common names. Fruit is round and turns black when ripe. Make sure to eat the berries only when ripe, as unripened fruits may be slightly toxic.

Solanum alatum (Solanum emulans) (Sweet Amber Pearls)
These plants produce edible, tangy but sweet berries and are native to Canada and the United States. Fruits can be eaten fresh, made into preserves, or dried in bunches and added to dry fruit and nut mixes. Leaves and unripe berries are toxic if ingested.

Solanum albornozii (Wild Potato)
Endemic to Ecuador, this species is a wild relative of the commercially domesticated species of Potato, Solanum tuberosum. Plants reach about 2 feet tall at maturity. The specific epithet albornozii honors Argentinian botanist Antonio Albornoz. Underground storage tubers have some of the highest concentrations of nutrients of all Potato species. Leaves and fruits are toxic.

Solanum americanum (Solanum ptychanthum) (American Black Nightshade, Small-Flowered Nightshade, Glossy Nightshade)
This species of herbaceous flowering plant is native to the tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas, Melanesia, New Guinea, and Australia. Plants reach between 40 and 60 inches tall at maturity, and produce white to light purple flowers. Berries that follow are shiny and black. Edibility of this species is uncertain; there have been reports of the darkened ripe berries being safe to consume, and other reports that foliage and ripened fruits have caused toxicity symptoms in humans and livestock.

Solanum anguivi (Forest Bitterberry, African Eggplant)
This species is an integral part of traditional ethnomedicine in India, and is native to non-arid regions on the African continent. Flowers are light purple to white and fruits that follow are green and mature to orange-red. Fruits are edible, and are commonly sold in marketplaces in the plants' native range. Plants reach about 10 feet tall and have spines on branches. Unripe fruits and foliage are toxic to humans and pets if ingested.

Solanum arcanum (Wild Tomato)
Endemic to coastal and inland valleys in Peru, these wild perennial Tomato relatives produce small fruits that are green with dark green stripes, maturing to purple when ripe. These somewhat vining plants can reach 5 feet tall at maturity, and are woody at the base. Flowers are yellow. The leaves and unripe fruits are toxic if ingested.

Solanum arundo
Native to eastern regions of Africa and India, this species forms a prickly shrub that tops out between 6.5 and 20 feet tall. Flowers are purple and have yellow centers. Fruits are yellow. Edibility of ripe fruits is unknown; unripe fruits and foliage are toxic if ingested.

Solanum ashbyae
This erect shrub is somewhat sprawling and reaches about 1.5 to 8 feet tall. Between April and August, this species produces purple-blue flowers with yellow centers. The species is named for botanical illustrator and plant collector Alison Ashby. Foliage and fruits are toxic.

Solanum atropurpureum (Malevolence, Purple Devil, Five-Minute Plant)
This perennial herbaceous plant is native to Brazil and is one of the more poisonous species in the genus. Shrubs reach between 4 and 6 feet tall and produce white to yellow flowers in late spring and summertime followed by orange fruits. Take care when handling these plants, as all parts are toxic; branches and stems have spines, and exudates can cause skin irritation.

Solanum aviculare (Poroporo, Bumurra, Kangaroo Apple, Pam Plum, New Zealand Nightshade)
This species was first described by German naturalist Georg Forster in 1786, who collected a specimen in New Zealand. These upright shrubs reach 13 feet tall at maturity under the right growing conditions and produce white, mauve, or blue-violet flowers. Berries emerge green and ripen to orange. Foliage is somewhat fern-like. Unripe berries and foliage are poisonous.

Solanum bahamense (Bahama Nightshade)
These plants are native across the West Indies and occur mainly in coastal habitats. Light purple to white flower petals are thin and flower centers are yellow. Fruits that follow flowers ripen to red. Plants reach about 6 feet tall at maturity and foliage has a rough texture. Foliage and fruits are toxic to humans and pets if ingested.

Solanum betaceum (Tamarillo, Tree Tomato, Blood Fruit, Poor Man's Tomatoe, Chilto, Tamamoro, Tyamtar, Terong Belanda)
This species is popular globally, especially in South America, Asia, and North America. This fast-growing tree species tops out around 15 feet tall. Tamarillo trees can live for up to 15 years and hit production peak after just four years of growth. Leaves have a strong, pungent smell and fruits have a firm flesh and are low in calories but high in vitamins and minerals. Flowers are white to pinkish and fragrant. These trees are sensitive to drought stress and high winds. Unripe fruits and leaves are toxic to humans and pets if ingested.

Solanum brevicaule (Solanum abancayense, Solanum alandiae) (Wild Potato)
Native to South America (Argentina, Peru, Bolivia), this species is related to the Potato (Solanum tuberosum), but is a wild species that produces smaller tubers. Flowers are white to light purple in color, and bloom in spring and summertime. Foliage, berries, and in some cases tubers are toxic to humans and pets if ingested.

Solanum brownii (Violet Nightshade)
This prickly shrub is native to a small range in Australia, and produces purple flowers from June through October. A specimen was first collected in 1804 from the banks of the Paterson River in the Hunter Valley in New South Wales, Australia. The species is named for its collector, Robert Brown. Foliage and berries are toxic.

Solanum bulbocastanum (Ornamental Nightshade)
Native to Mexico and the southwestern United States, this species of Nightshade is closely related to the Potato, and is used mainly to develop resistances to diseases that plague commercially grown Potato species. Flowers are light yellow to cream colored, sometimes with greenish or brownish tones. Underground storage tubers are edible. Foliage and berries are considered toxic.

Solanum bullatum
This species of Nightshade is endemic to Brazil, where it grows in Atlantic Forest habitats. Leaves are dark green and somewhat leathery, and ripened fruits are bright red, shiny and round. Foliage and fruits are toxic to humans and pets if ingested.

Solanum cajanumense (Casana)
This small tree species is native to Peru, Ecuador, and Colombia and is not very tolerant of frost, heat, or direct sunlight, preferring to grow in cloud forest habitats. Fruits are yellow and edible, similar to a Tamarillo. These trees have not been widely cultivated due to the wide variability of fruit flavor, the delicate nature of the plants themselves, and its susceptibility to pests like Aphids. It is occasionally seen as a patio tree or front entryway specimen. These trees commonly reach about 6.5 to 16 feet tall at maturity. Most parts of the plant are toxic, including unripe fruits and foliage.

Solanum campylacanthum (Bitter Apple)
This species is very common in its widespread native range, which includes grasslands, savannahs, and woodlands in eastern, central and southern areas of Africa. Flowers are white with yellow centers and leaves are elongated and pointed at the tips. Do not consume; fruits of this species are poisonous to humans, pets and livestock.

Solanum candidum (Fuzzyfruit Nightshade, Naranjilla Silvestre, Chichilegua)
This large, vigorous evergreen shrub is native to South America and is grown for its edible berries. These plants are considered rare in cultivation, and reach about 10 feet tall at maturity. Leaves and fruits are fuzzy, and branches and stems are covered in sharp prickles. All parts of these plants are generally considered to be toxic to humans and pets.

Solanum capsicoides (Cockroach Berry, Polohauai'i)
​This species is native to eastern Brazil, and has naturalized itself in many other tropical regions, where it is considered an invasive plant. Leaves are large, green and fuzzy, and stems and branches are covered in sharp prickles. Flowers are white. Fruits are round and emerge green, ripening to orange. Leaves and unripe fruits are toxic to humans and pets if ingested.

Solanum cardiophyllum (Cimatli, Heartleaf Horsenettle, Heartleaf Nightshade)
​These wild Potato plants are found primarily in Mexico, and was commonly used as food for native human populations in the area. It is considered a weed in some parts of the United States, so make sure to check with local ordinances before planting. Individual plants reach about 2 feet tall, and produces small underground tubers that have the taste and texture of domesticated potatoes. Foliage and berries are toxic if ingested.

Solanum caripense (Tzimbalo, Wild Tomato)
These plants are native to South America, and produces edible fruits similar to Pepino. It is a recently rediscovered heirloom species that is quickly gaining in popularity with home gardeners. Fruits are commonly green with darker striping reminiscent of a watermelon. Unripe fruits and foliage are toxic.

Solanum carolinense (Carolina Horsenettle, Radical Weed, Sand Briar, Devil's Tomato, Wild Tomato, Tread-Softly, Apple of Sodom, Bull Nettle)
​This southeastern U.S. native plant has many common names, and has stems and leaf undersides that are covered with sharp prickles. Stems of older plants are woody; these plants spread via underground rhizomes and will reseed freely. Flowers are commonly white with yellow centers. All parts of these plants contain toxins; do not consume.

Solanum catilliflorum
This species of evergreen vine is native to Peru and produces small, dish-shaped flowers. These plants are harvested in their local habitat as a food source. This species is considered rare, and is threatened with extinction due to habitat loss. Foliage and unripe fruits are toxic to humans and pets if ingested.

Solanum centrale (Kutjera, Australian Desert Raisin, Bush Saltana)
This species of bush tomato was first formally described in 1934 and fruits prolifically after years with fire or high rainfall. Fruits dry on the shrub and shrivel, looking like large raisins which can be eaten off the shrub or ground to make into desserts or other dishes. Foliage and unripe fruits are toxic.

Solanum chacoense (Wild Potato)
This species is native to South America, and is one of the most widely distributed wild potato species around the world. This species was used to develop the modern-day domesticated potato plant, and can be found growing wild next to many botanical gardens and breeding stations. These plants are toxic to humans and pets if ingested.

Solanum cheesmaniae (Galapagos Tomato)
​This species of wild tomato evolved on the famous Galapagos Islands and is a robust, perennial that begins erect and lays out flat after stems reach a certain length. Fruits are small and yellow. The foliage and unripe fruits of this species are toxic to humans and pets if ingested.

Solanum chenopodioides (Whitetip Nightshade, Velvety Nightshade, Goosefoot Nightshade, Tall Nightshade)
Native to South America, this species has naturalized itself in North America, Europe, Australia, and New Zealand. This sprawling perennial produces white flowers with yellow centers and has fuzzy stems and foliage. Toxicity uncertain; take care when planting and around children or pets that foliage and unripe berries are not ingested.

Solanum chilense
These robust, perennial, herbaceous plants that has grayish stems which mature to green. Flowers are yellow, and fruits that follow are greenish with dark mottling, maturing to purple with green striping. ​The foliage and unripe fruits of this species are toxic to humans and pets if ingested.

Solanum chippendalei (Bush Tomato, Ngaru, Chippendale's Tomato)
Native to northern Australia, this species of wild tomato is named after its collector, George Chippendale. ​The foliage and unripe fruits of this species are toxic to humans and pets if ingested.

Solanum citrullifolium (Watermelon Nightshade)
These subshrubs are commonly cultivated as ornamentals in gardens and is native to the southern United States. These plants get their common name Watermelon Nightshade because their leaves look similar to those on a Watermelon plant. ​The foliage and unripe fruits of this species are toxic to humans and pets if ingested.

Solanum crinitum (Solanum macranthum) (Giant Star Potato Tree)
This tropical tree reaches about forty feet tall at maturity, and is native to Brazil. Flowers on these trees are various shades of purple and white depending on their age, similar to Brunfelsia pauciflora. These trees are considered fully mature at age 4, and then only last about a year more before dying. ​The foliage and unripe fruits of this species are toxic to humans and pets if ingested.

Solanum crispum (Chilean Potato Vine, Chilean Nightshade, Chilean Potato Tree, Potato Vine)
Native to Chile and Peru, these plants are semi-evergreen, woody and have a climbing habit. Flowers are small, blue-purple, and fragrant, blooming in summertime in profuse clusters. Berries are ripe in fall, but are poisonous, as is foliage. These plants are fast-growing and have a long blooming period, making them wonderful ornamentals for gardens. Requires some protection from frost. Variety 'Album' has white flowers.

Solanum densevestitum (Felty Nightshade)
Native to the east coastal areas of Australia, this species grows in Eucalyptus forests, rainforests, and woodlands. This species forms an erect shrub up to three and a half feet tall with white to pale violet flowers that bloom throughout the year. Flowers are followed by red berries. ​The foliage and unripe fruits of this species are toxic to humans and pets if ingested.

Solanum dimidiatum (Western Horsenettle, Torrey's Nightshade, Robust Horsenettle)
This species is native to the central United States, and is considered to be an invasive weed in California landscapes. It grows from rhizome, and is a perennial herb with green foliage and purple, white or lavender flowers with yellow centers that bloom in clusters. Berries that follow blooms are yellow and spherical. ​The foliage and unripe fruits of this species are toxic to humans and pets if ingested.

Solanum diphyllum (Two-Leaf Nightshade)
These plants are cultivated as ornamentals in gardens, valued for their handsome foliage, profuse white flowers and colorful berries that turn bright yellow when ripe. ​The foliage and unripe fruits of this species are toxic to humans and pets if ingested.

Solanum douglasii (Douglas' Nightshade, Greenspot Nightshade)
These plants are native to northern Mexico and the southwestern United States where it grows in scrub landscapes and wooded areas. There are green spots at the base of the corolla lobes, hence the common name Greenspot Nightshade. Flowers are white, and the plant has an overall delicate habit. ​The foliage and unripe fruits of this species are toxic to humans and pets if ingested.

Solanum dulcamara (Bittersweet Nightshade, Bitter Nightshade, Blue Bindweed, Amara Dulcis, Climbing Nightshade, Fellenwort, Felonwort, Poisonberry, Poisonflower, Scarlet Berry, Snakeberry, Violet Bloom, Woody Nightshade)
Native to Europe and Asia, these shrubby plants have green foliage, purple flowers, and produce green berries that move through various shades before ripening to bright red. Stems and stalks are deep purple-brown. Take care when planting these shrubs in your garden, as all parts are poisonous.

Solanum elaegnifolium (Silverleaf Nightshade, Silver-Leaved Nightshade, Prairie Berry, Silverleaf Nettle, White Horsenettle. Silver Nightshade, Trompillo)
These shrubs have silvery-grey green foliage and produce light greyish purple flowers in spring and summertime. Fruits are light green with dark green stripes, maturing to yellow, orange, or red, staying on the plant through the winter. These plants are toxic to humans, pets, and livestock.

Solanum erianthum (Mullein Nightshade, Velvet Nightshade, Salvadora, Potato Tree)
This species of Nightshade is native to southern North America through northern South America. This is a fast-growing evergreen small tree or shrub, and loves colonizing disturbed land. At maturity, these plants can reach between 6.5 and 26 feet tall. ​Foliage and unripe fruits are toxic to humans and pets if ingested.

Solanum esuriale (Quena, Quenna, Potato Weed, Potato Bush, Bulumburr, Jinyjiwirrily)
This species is native to Australia and has greenish grey foliage and produces dark purple star-shaped flowers with yellow centers. Pale green berries follow, and mature to light yellow or brown. ​Foliage and unripe fruits are toxic to humans and pets if ingested.

Solanum etuberosum
These plants produce showy flowers and have been used as garden ornamentals. They are a species that is being studied for its resistance to common Potato diseases, pests, and frost. These plants do not form tuberous roots, just thickened rhizomes and are not a good crop planting. ​Foliage and unripe fruits are toxic to humans and pets if ingested.

Solanum galapagense (Galapagos Tomato)
Similar to Solanum cheesmaniae, but with smaller fruits that are deeper orange in color and more fragrant foliage. These plants are native to the Galapagos Islands, and occur mainly along coastlines. ​Foliage and unripe fruits are toxic to humans and pets if ingested.

Solanum habrochaites (Hairy Tomato)
This flowering herbaceous plant is one of the most important genetic contributors to the modern day Tomato plant (Solanum lycopersicum). These tomatoes are native to Ecuador and Peru, and fruits are light green striped with dark green. ​Foliage and unripe fruits are toxic to humans and pets if ingested.

Solanum heterodoxum (Melonleaf Nightshade)
Native to the southwestern United States and Mexico, this species. Leaves are dark green, flowers are white to purple with yellow centers, and stems and leaves have sharp prickles. ​Foliage and unripe fruits are toxic to humans and pets if ingested.

Solanum incompletum (Thorny Popolo, Popolo Ku Mai)
This species is native to Hawai'i, and forms a shrub up to 10 feet tall at maturity. Stems and lower leaf surfaces are covered with red pricks, and flowers are large and white. These plants prefer forest or shrubland habitats, and are considered threatened with extinction due to habitat loss in their native range. ​The foliage and unripe fruits of this species are toxic to humans and pets if ingested.

Solanum lacinatum (Poroporo, Bullibulli, Kangaroo Apple)
This species is native to Australia and New Zealand, where it produces blue-purple flowers in January and February. Plants reach between 3 and 9 feet tall and wide at maturity. Leaves are green and shaped like a Kangaroo footprint, hence the common name Kangaroo Apple. ​The foliage and unripe fruits of this species are toxic to humans and pets if ingested.

Solanum laxum (Jasmine Nightshade, Potato Vine, Potato Climber)
This evergreen species is commonly grown as a woody ornamental vine. These plants are native to South America, and produce white flowers followed by dark blue-purple to black berries. Variety 'Album' is a choice selection. ​The foliage and unripe fruits of this species are toxic to humans and pets if ingested.

Solanum lycocarpum (Wolf Apple, Lobeira, Fruta-de-Lobo)
This species provides a large portion of the diet of the Maned Wolf in South America, hence its common names. These shrubs or small trees can reach up to 16 feet tall at maturity. Flowers are purple with yellow centers, and fruits that follow ripen to a green color. Fruit flesh is yellow, soft, sweet and very aromatic. Leaves are leathery and covered with hairs. ​The foliage and unripe fruits of this species are toxic to humans and pets if ingested.

Solanum lycopersicum (Tomato)
These plants are native to South America, Mexico, and Central America, and there are countless varieties to choose from. Tomatoes have been a staple food in many cuisines worldwide historically, and will continue to fulfill that role in the future. Tomato fruits are made into sauces, eaten fresh, dried, canned, and added to recipes for a great umami flavor. Visit the following page to explore all the different varieties of this popularly-grown crop plant species.

Solanum lyratum (Lyreleaf Nightshade)
This interesting Nightshade species is native to China, Taiwan, Vietnam, Cambodia, Korea, and Japan, where it is usually found growing on forest floors. These plants are somewhat weedy, and have been known to colonize disturbed areas of land. Flowers are white to mauve to grey-purple and have recurved petals and green, yellow, and dark maroon centers. Berries that follow are bright red. ​The foliage and unripe fruits of this species are toxic to humans and pets if ingested.

Solanum macrocarpon (African Eggplant, Surinamese Eggplant, Vietnamese Eggplant)
This species is native to West Africa, but has naturalized itself and has been cultivated in many other areas of the world. These plants are considered both crop and ornamental plants, and produce handsome-foliaged shrubs that can reach 5 feet tall at maturity. Fruits are round, and can be green, ivory, or purple and white. Flowers are normally purple, but can also be white. Take care when planting these shrubs in your garden; all plant parts except for the ripe fruits are poisonous.

Solanum mammosum (Nipple Fruit, Fox Head, Cow's Udder, Apple of Sodom)
This species produces inedible but interesting ripe fruits and is grown mainly for ornamental purposes. These are annual plants, and are native to South America. Dried branches with fruits still attached are used to decorate for many important holidays and festivals in its native range, and the fruits are sometimes consumed when they are underripe (and non-toxic), cooked or boiled and consumed as a drink or tea. ​Take care when planting these shrubs in your garden as plant parts can be toxic to humans and pets if ingested.

Solanum marginatum (White-Margined Nightshade, African Purple Nightshade)
Native to Ethiopia and Eritrea, this species is known in some areas of the world as an invasive weedy plant. Leaves are large, grey, and somewhat wavy. Undersides of foliage are wooly and white. Flowers are white with pink markings towards the center, blooming in clusters. Fruits are yellow berries. ​Take care when planting these shrubs in your garden; all plant parts are poisonous.

Solanum mauritianum (Earleaf Nightshade, Wooly Nightshade, Flannel Weed, Bugweed, Tobacco Weed, Tobacco Bush, Wild Tobacco, Kerosene Plant)
This multi-trunk shrub or small tree can reach about 33 feet tall at maturity, and foliage has a strong odor. Living up to 30 years, these shrub-trees are entirely poisonous to humans and pets if consumed. 

Solanum melissarum
These small shrubs or trees are native to Brazil and reach between 3 and 17 feet tall with a single trunk at maturity. Flowers are greenish white, and fruits that follow are both sweet and sour. These plants can live for up to 12 years, producing as young as 2 years old. ​The foliage and unripe fruits of this species are toxic to humans and pets if ingested.

Solanum melongena (Eggplant, Aubergine, Brinjal, Baigan)
These plants are grown worldwide for their edible fruits, which have countless uses in the culinary arts. The fruits themselves are not particularly nutritious, but they take on other flavors like little sponges, adding structure and texture to many cuisines. There are many different Eggplant cultivars, listed and described on the page linked here:

Solanum muricatum (Pepino Dulce, Pepino, Pepino Melon, Melon Pear, Tree Melon)
These evergreen shrubs are grown for their edible fruits, and are native to South America. They are perennial plants commonly cultivated as annuals. Fruits are common in marketplaces in their home range, but they do not travel well, and therefore have not been introduced in many international markets. Ripe fruits are yellow with dark purple striping and have a taste reminiscent of honeydew. ​The foliage and unripe fruits of this species are toxic to humans and pets if ingested.

Solanum nelsonii (Nelson's Horsenettle, Popolo)
This partially woody spreading shrub is native to the Pacific Islands, and grows on low, coastal sites in coral rubble and sand. These plants are used in restoration projects in and around the Hawaiian Islands. Leaves are wavy, large, and have sharp prickles and flowers are white. ​The foliage and unripe fruits of this species are toxic to humans and pets if ingested.

Solanum nigrum (European Black Nightshade, Black Nightshade, Blackberry Nightshade)
This species, native to Eurasia, this common perennial herbaceous shrub reaches between 12 and 50 inches tall at maturity, and produces green foliage and white flowers. Berries emerge green, ripening to black when ready for harvesting. Eat berries only when fully ripe; unripe berries and other plant parts are toxic.

Solanum opacum (Green Berry Nightshade, Morelle Verte)
This annual has a sprawling habit and is native to eastern areas of Australia. These plants are prickle-less, and produce green foliage, white flowers, and berries that are yellow-green when ripe. These plants are uncommonly cultivated, and the fruits are considered rare. Fruits are spicy-sweet. ​Eat berries only when fully ripe; unripe berries and other plant parts are toxic.

Solanum pachyandrum (Bombona)
Native to southwestern Ecuador and northwestern Peru, this species of Nightshade It was first scientifically published in 1914 by German botanist Friedrich August Georg Bitter. These plants are woody to semi-woody vines with deeply lobed green leaves and white flowers in spring and summertime. Fruits are purple when immature, and turn yellow to orange when ripened. ​Eat berries only when fully ripe; unripe berries and other plant parts are toxic.

Solanum paniculatum (Jurubeba)
This is a common plant across Brazil, and is used to make a popular beverage mixed with Cachaca. Fruits are traditinally consumed in rural areas, pickled and brined with sugar. Individual plants form shrubs or small trees, and range in height from 3 to 12 feet tall when mature. ​Eat berries only when fully ripe; unripe berries and other plant parts are toxic.

Solanum parishii (Parish's Nightshade)
This species is native to western North America from Oregon down through Baja California, Mexico. These species are commonly seen in woodlands and forests. Flowers are purple and have yellow centers. ​The foliage and unripe fruits of this species are toxic to humans and pets if ingested.

Solanum petrophilum (Rock Nightshade, Prickly Nightshade)
This Australian native is a herbaceous plant with greyish green foliage and purple flowers with yellow centers. These plants produce prickles that are usually reddish in color and appear along stems and shoots as well as on the undersides of leaves. Fruit ripens to a light brown to tan color. ​The foliage and unripe fruits of this species are toxic to humans and pets if ingested.

Solanum physalifolium (Hoe Nightshade, Argentine Nightshade, Green Nightshade, Hairy Nightshade)
This species, native to Argentina, Bolivia, and Chile, has naturalized itself in many areas around the world. It is labeled as a noxious weed in some U.S. states. These herbaceous plants grow from a taproot and produce white flowers. Plants reach between 4 and 35 inches at maturity. ​The foliage and unripe fruits of this species are toxic to humans and pets if ingested.

Solanum prinophyllum (Forest Nightshade, Grin Whiskers)
This species is a low-growing herbaceous perennial plant that reaches about 20 inches tall at maturity. These plants have many reddish prickles on stems, shoots and leaves, and produce purple flowers. Fruits are green and mature to purple. ​The foliage and unripe fruits of this species are toxic to humans and pets if ingested.

Solanum pseudocapsicum (Jarusalem Cherry, Madeira Winter Cherry)
These perennial plants can be grown as indoor houseplants, but are more commonly seen cultivated outdoors, and in some areas of the globe is considered an invasive weed. Take care when planting these shrubs in your yard or bringing them into your home, as plant parts and berries are poisonous to humans and pets (including birds).

Solanum quadriloculatum (Bush Tomato, Wild Tomato)
These subshrubs are native to Australia, and produce greyish-green foliage and purple flowers with yellow centers. They are commonly found in their native range nestled amongst Eucalyptus forest areas. ​The foliage and unripe fruits of this species are toxic to humans and pets if ingested.

Solanum quitoense (Little Orange, Naranjilla, Lulo Plant)
The fruits produced by these plants are citrusy, described as a mix between a lime and rhubarb. The species is native to Ecuador, Costa Rica, and Panama. The fruits are used to make a local drink, Lulada. Individual plants reach up to between 2 and 8 feet tall, and produce green, fuzzy, purple-tinged foliage. Fruits are orange, tomato-like berries that are about 2 inches in diameter. ​The foliage and unripe fruits of this species are toxic to humans and pets if ingested.

Solanum retroflexum (Umsobo, Wonderberry, Sunberry)
This heirloom fruiting compact shrub species produces dark blue to purple edible berries. When unripe, berries are toxic as is the foliage, so take care when planting these shrubs in your garden and ensure that they are not ingested.

Solanum robustum (Shrubby Nightshade)
Native to South America, this species produces a thorny perennial shrub and can reach between 4 and 8 feet tall at maturity. Flowers bloom in late spring through the middle of fall and are white, followed by white to yellow-orange berries. ​The foliage and unripe fruits of this species are toxic to humans and pets if ingested.

Solanum rostratum (Buffaloburr Nightshade, Buffalo-Bur, Spiny Nightshade, Kansas Thistle, Bad Woman, Mexican Thistle, Texas Thistle)
This annual shrub can self-pollinate, and is native to the United States and north-central Mexico. These herbaceous plants form tumbleweeds, individual plants reaching about 5 feet tall. ​The foliage and unripe fruits of this species are toxic to humans and pets if ingested.

Solanum scabrum (Garden Huckleberry)
This species can be either an annual or perennial, depending on where it is grown. These plants are used in their native range as a leaf vegetable, and dyes are made from the juice of berries. Berries are purple to black in color. ​The foliage and unripe fruits of this species are toxic to humans and pets if ingested.

​Solanum sessiliflorum (Cocona)
These plants have strong branches and is closely related to Narajilla. Fruits are red, orange or yellow when ripe. These plants can be grown indoors as houseplants or in greenhouses, and is occasionally cultivated as a crop plant in South America. ​The foliage and unripe fruits of this species are toxic to humans and pets if ingested.

Solanum sisymbrifolium (Vila-Vila, Sticky Nightshade, Red Buffalo-Burr, Fire-And-Ice Plant, Litchi Tomato, Morelle de Balbis)
Small, edible fruits produced by this plant are red, tasting like a mix between a cherry and a tomato. Fruits grow inside of green, dry husks. These plants are sometimes grown in gardens as an ornamental (or edimental) and have many thorns. Flowers are light purple to white and have yellow centers. ​The foliage and unripe fruits of this species are toxic to humans and pets if ingested.

Solanum spirale (Spiral Nightshade, Spiral Bittersweet)
These small shrubs are commonly grown in South Asia and Austrlia. The plants are cultivated for their edible young, cooked leaves or young, cooked berries and are also used in traditional medicine. The foliage and uncooked, unripe fruits of this species are toxic to humans and pets if ingested.

Solanum symonii (Kangaroo Apple, South Australian Kangaroo-Apple)
This species is native to Australia and produces light purple round flowers with yellow centers. Leaves are lance-shaped, leathery and green. These shrubs have soft wood, and flowering peaks between the months of July through October in its native range. ​The foliage and unripe fruits of this species are toxic to humans and pets if ingested.

Solanum torvum (Pendejera, Turkey Berry, Devil's Fig, Pea Eggplant, Platebrush, Susumber)
These bushy, erect, prickly plants that produce short-lived white flowers. Fruits grow in clusters and resemble tiny green peas. They have thin flesh, and contain many brown seeds. Fruits are commonly sold in open marketplaces in the plants' native range. These plants are used frequently as rootstock for grafted eggplant varieties due to its vigorous nature and resistance to diseases. ​The foliage and unripe fruits of this species are toxic to humans and pets if ingested.

Solanum triflorum (Cutleaf Nightshade, Small Nightshade)
This species of Nightshades, like many others, is native to South America, and is considered a weed in some areas of its range. Stems are decumbent, and grow quickly, sticking out from the center of the plant by about 3 feet in all directions. Leaves are deeply cut and green, and flowers are white (sometimes tinged purple) with yellow centers, followed by round fruits. The foliage and unripe fruits of this species are toxic to humans and pets if ingested.

Solanum tuberosum (Potato, Spud, Earth Apple, Ground Apple)
This perennial species is native to the Americas, and is a staple food throughout the world. They are originally native to Peru and Bolivia, though they are now cultivated in almost every region worldwide. They are such an important food source that many Potato museums have been created in Europe and North America. There are many different varieties of this species, developed for different tastes and textures. 

Solanum umbelliferum (Bluewitch Nighshade, Bluewitch)
These plants are native to California, Arizona, and Baja California, Mexico, where it grows in Oak Woodlands and Chaparral environments. Flowers are light purple to blue and frilly, and fade to reveal tiny eggplant-like fruits that begin green and mature to purple. These are tough, resilient shrubs that can recover well from drought and wildfire conditions and do well in clay soils. ​The foliage and unripe fruits of this species are toxic to humans and pets if ingested.

Solanum verrucosum (Wild Potato)
This species, native to Mexico, is normally found in cloud forest environments. These plants produce small tubers that have great flavor and texture, but because of their size they are not a commonly relied-upon food source. ​The foliage and unripe fruits of this species are toxic to humans and pets if ingested.

Solanum vescum (Green Kangaroo Apple, Gunyang)
This small, fruiting shrub is native to Australia and was first described in 1855 by botanist Ferdinand von Mueller. These shrubs reach about 3-6 feet tall and a bit wider at maturity. Fruits are yellow to ivory-green berries with dark streaks. The foliage and unripe fruits of this species are toxic to humans and pets if ingested.

Solanum viarum (Tropical Soda Apple)
This perennial shrub is native to Brazil and Argentina, and has prickly stems and leaves. It is considered to be a noxious weed in many areas of the United States, including California, Oregon and Arizona. Plants reach between 3 and 6 feet tall and produce round, yellow fruits. ​The foliage and unripe fruits of this species are toxic to humans and pets if ingested.

Solanum viride (Green Nightshade, Garland Berry, Cannibal's Tomato, Poroporo, Boro Dina)
This species is native to the islands of the South Pacific, and has been introduced to Hawai'i. At the time of its discovery, its leaves were used as a wrap that contained human meat for consumption and the berries were made into a condiment for the same purpose, hence the name Cannibal's Tomato. ​The foliage and unripe fruits of this species are toxic to humans and pets if ingested.

Solanum wallacei (Wallace's NIghtshade, Catalina Nightshade, Northern Island Nightshade, Wild Tomato)
This purple-flowered perennial plant is rare, native to the Channel Islands off the California coast, as well as some islands off of the coast of Baja California, Mexico. The species is named for botanist William Allen Wallace, who collected the first specimen of the species outside of what is now Los Angeles, California in 1854. Flowers bloom in April and May, and fruits that follow blossoms are purple-black. Do not consume fruits or foliage, as they are toxic.

Solanum wendlandii (Giant Potato Creeper, Potato Vine, Divorce Vine, Costa Rican Nightshade, Paradise Flower)
This species is a prolific bloomer, popular as a garden ornamental, is native to Mexico, Central America, and northwestern South America. Flowers are purple and long-lasting, eventually fading to white before dropping off the plant. ​The foliage and unripe fruits of this species are toxic to humans and pets if ingested.

Solanum xanti (Chaparral Nightshade, Purple Nightshade, San Diego Nightshade)
Native to the Western United States and Baja California Mexico, these plants are perennial subshrubs with green foliage and purple flowers with yellow centers. These plants are commonly cultivated and sold at nurseries as landscape ornamental plants. It has great deer resistance and does well under oak trees. Variety 'Mountain Pride' (pictured) is a choice selection that is a fantastic addition to water-wise gardens. ​The foliage and unripe fruits of this species are toxic to humans and pets if ingested.

Caring for Solanum

Propagation

Solanum, or Nightshade, can be propagated by cutting or seed. To ensure that your propagated plant will have the exact same qualities and characteristics as the parent plant, use the cutting method. If you would like to experiment and see what plant you can grow from seed, just keep in mind that it will not necessarily be the same as the parent plant, especially if you are propagating a hybrid cultivar. For specific instructions on how to propagate Eggplant, Tomato, and Potato plants, see their individual species pages. To propagate your Nightshade plant, follow the instructions below:

Propagating Solanum by Seed
  1. Keep in mind that the plant you get from seed will not necessarily mimic all of the characteristics of the parent plant. To propagate by seed, you will need a paper bag, a pot or tray filled with well-draining compost or other organic material, a spray bottle and a fork. If you don't have any potting medium on hand, you can make some. Just mix together equal parts (by volume) moss peat and horticultural-grade sand or grit sand. You will also, after a few weeks, need individual 3-inch pots for each seedling that grows.
  2. Harvest your seeds. 
  3. Get your container prepared. Water your prepared seed tray or pot filled with soil, and ensure that good drainage is occurring. Place your seeds in your prepared pot or seed tray about a quarter inch to a half-inch under the soil surface. Cover them with soil and water with your spray bottle. Place your tray of seeds in a warm area that receives bright, indirect light. A greenhouse is the most ideal climate, but a planting tray inside a window will do as well. Germination usually takes 2-6 weeks from sowing. Once you begin to see seedlings sprout and they are able to be handled, transplant them to their own individual 3-inch pots, filled with the same potting medium as described in Step 1. Loosen the seedlings from the potting medium by digging down with the tines of your fork about an inch and a half, gently working the seedling up until it is out. Then, replant the seedling in its individual pot.
  4. Keep the seedling's potting medium moist, but not wet, by spraying the soil with your spray bottle. Keep your new plant in an area with bright light (though not direct sunlight) and temperatures between 65 and 72 degrees Fahrenheit. Ensure that the soil stays moist, but not wet, until the next spring (after the danger of frost has passed), when you can transplant it to its new home.

Propagating Solanum by Cutting
  1. Gather your materials. You'll need a clean, sanitized, sharp pair of garden shears, rooting hormone, a pencil, and a 3-inch pot filled with well-draining compost or other organic material. If you don't have any potting medium on hand, you can make some. Just mix together equal parts (by volume) moss peat and horticultural-grade sand or grit sand.
  2. In early summertime, choose the plant that you'd like to propagate. Ensure that this plant has had a good watering the night before, as this will improve the chances your cutting will take root. Cut one or more 3-4 inch portion(s) of the end of a non-blooming branch and strip the leaves off of the lower half. Make a hole in your planting medium by pushing your pencil into the soil. Dip the end of the stem in rooting hormone, and plant it in your pot. Fill in soil around the cutting to support it, but do not pack it down too much.
  3. Moisten with water, and ensure that the pot has good drainage. Your pot should be kept in warm, sunny conditions indoors (and not in direct sunlight). Water whenever your soil is dry under the top layer. After about four to six weeks have passed, your cutting should be rooted. When you notice new growth, you'll know you have roots.
  4. Keep your new plant in an area with bright light (though not direct sunlight) and temperatures between 55 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Ensure that the soil stays moist, but not wet, until the next spring, when you can transplant it to its new home. Ensure that the last frost of the year has occurred before doing this, as it can seriously damage your new plant.

Problems and Pests

Solanum plants are susceptible to developing issues with the following pests and diseases in the landscape:
  • ​Aphids
  • Whiteflies
  • Thrips
  • Beetles
  • Late Blight
  • Early Blight
  • Bacterial Spot
  • Botrytis Grey Mold
  • Fusarium Wilt
  • Mosaic Virus
For more information on these problems, including how to correct them, see the following links.
​

Gallery

Solanum plants can take many forms, including shrubs or subshrubs, vines, and small trees.
Flowers range in color from purple to white and yellow.
Some species, like the Naranjilla, can provide tropical-looking foliage to mixed beds and borders.

Videos

A video all about growing camellias successfully
Propagating camellias

Resources

Managing Pests in Gardens: Vegetables: Tomato
The New Sunset Western Garden Book: The Ultimate Gardening Guide (2012) - Page