Black nightshade (Solanum herba-bona)
Care, watering, light and tips for Black nightshade on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Solanaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 3 days
- Light: Full sun
- Temperature: 10–35 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Black nightshade
Solanum herba-bona, known as Hierba mora in Chile, is a perennial herbaceous plant from the Solanaceae family, native to South America. It is characterized by its small, star-shaped white flowers and spherical fruits that ripen from green to black. It is ideal for wild gardens or as ground cover in semi-shaded areas, adding a natural and rustic touch.
Native range
Chile and Argentina
Care tips
It prefers semi-shaded locations, although it can tolerate some direct sun if the climate is not excessively hot. Watering should be moderate, allowing the substrate to dry out slightly between waterings to avoid waterlogging. It adapts to a wide variety of soils but prefers those rich in organic matter and well-drained. A common mistake is overwatering, which can lead to root rot.
How to save a dying Black nightshade
- Warning signs
- Yellowing or wilting leaves, soft stems, fruits not ripening or dropping.
- First aid
- Check drainage and soil moisture. Ensure bright, indirect light.
- What kills it
- Overwatering or waterlogging leading to root rot. Insufficient light.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if roots aren't completely rotted and some stems are firm.