The black nightshade is not very popular in most gardens. The plant, which is related to the potato, is considered a weed, grows quickly and spreads by itself, even on fallow land and field edges.

Black nightshade is poisonous

How and where does black nightshade grow?

The black nightshade grows almost everywhere, but prefers nitrogenous clay soil. You can find it on field and roadsides, on walls and on rubble dumps. He also likes to settle in the garden. Since it multiplies quickly and plentifully there, it is considered a weed. The annual herbaceous plants are usually up to 70 centimeters high, in good conditions up to one meter.

Is Black Nightshade Poisonous?

Black nightshade contains tannins and alkaloids, including solanine, which is also found in potatoes and unripe tomatoes. The concentration of the ingredients varies greatly, but some parts of the plant can be classified as poisonous to very poisonous, especially the herb, the leaves and the seeds.

Unripe black nightshade berries are also considered poisonous, while ripe ones (without seeds!) are sometimes edible. However, consumption is strongly discouraged because poisoning can be fatal. The amount responsible for this varies greatly and cannot be reliably classified.

How do I remove Black Nightshade?

As a rule, the black nightshade is removed mechanically, i.e. by uprooting or mowing. Both methods are successful. However, it is important that you remove it before it bears fruit and it falls to the ground, ideally even before flowering. Otherwise new plants will grow there next year.

Combating black nightshade with chemicals does not make sense. Since it is related to potatoes and tomatoes, appropriate remedies would also harm these plants. That might not be what you want.

The essentials in brief:

  • toxic to humans and animals
  • not suitable for family gardens
  • annual plant
  • herbaceous growth
  • usually up to 70 cm tall
  • Seeds germinate for a long time
  • Removal before flowering recommended

tips

Because of its toxicity, black nightshade should not be allowed in your yard around small children or pets.

Category:

Herbs