Solanum nigrum BLACK NIGHTSHADE (20 seeds)

Black Nightshade, also known as Devil's Tomato, is a European herbaceous plant from the Solanaceae family. It is an annual variety that grows rapidly, reaching about 60 cm in height.

The flowers are white, grouped in clusters at the leaf axils, and consist of five star-shaped petals. They have a delicate appearance and measure 1 cm in diameter. Flowering occurs from summer until early autumn.

Its fruits are round, black, and shiny berries measuring approximately 1 to 2 cm in diameter. They are toxic when they are not ripe.

Black nightshade seeds from Solanum nigrum are yellow, circular, and small, measuring 2 to 3 millimeters in diameter.

- Uses:

A Witness to Biodiversity

The Black Nightshade is a fascinating species sharing a botanical kinship with iconic crops such as the tomato and the eggplant.
As a pioneer plant par excellence, it is recognized by botanists for its natural ability to colonize tilled or bare soil.
It is an ideal subject for studying the mechanisms of resilience and the rapid development of wild species.

A Subject of Ethnobotanical Interest

Sometimes nicknamed "wolf grape," Black Nightshade holds a special place in ancient herbals and the narratives of traditional European botany.
It is a plant that has long accompanied human history, being the subject of numerous observations in classical phytology works.
Today, it remains an essential specimen for any collector wishing to build a botanical collection representative of the companion species of our regions.

- Germination and Sowing:

• The ideal period to sow the Devil's Tomato is from April to early May.
• Sow the seeds in a small tray of fine horticultural potting soil without covering them.
• Water the plantation gently using a spray bottle.
• Place the tray in a greenhouse in a warm, humid spot and let it grow.
• Germination will begin 2 to 3 weeks after planting.
• Transplant the seedlings once they reach 10 to 15 cm in height.

- Soil type / Substrate:

It grows very well in soils rich in organic matter and well-drained. It can tolerate poor and dry soils, but its growth will be reduced.

- Exposure / Light:

This rather robust esoteric plant prefers a very sunny exposure, but it can also tolerate partial shade. A full-sun location will promote better development and a more abundant fruit production.

- Temperatures / Hardiness:

It thrives in temperatures ranging from 15 to 25°C. It is frost-sensitive and dies if temperatures drop below freezing.

- Watering / Irrigation:

This "witchcraft" nightshade requires regular watering, especially during dry summer periods. However, it is important to avoid excess water, as this can lead to root rot. It is advisable to water when the soil begins to dry on the surface.

- Reproduction / Multiplication:

The easiest way to reproduce the Devil's Tomato is by sowing its seeds.

- Maintenance:

Thoroughly remove all dry parts at the end of autumn.

This article was written by Julien on 07/11/2026.