Nightshade (Solanum incanum)

Also known as: Bitter apple, Bitterball, Grey bitter-apple

Solanum incanum, often referred to as poison apple, Sodom apple, and thorn apple, has nicknames that underscore its poisonous nature. The plant's toxic fruit poses a notable risk to livestock and grazing animals, particularly in its native regions of Africa, where the plant is both widespread and highly invasive. Additionally, it serves as an effective pesticide, especially against cattle ticks.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of Nightshade

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Shrub

Plant Height

1.5 m

Spread

0.5 to 1.5 meters

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

1 to 2 centimeters

Flower Color

Purple

Images of Nightshade

Quickly Identify Nightshade

The plant can be identified by its thorny stems and leaves, purple flowers with yellow anthers, and round yellow fruits that resemble small tomatoes.

Scientific Classification of Nightshade

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Solanales

Family

Nightshade

Genus

Nightshades

Species

Nightshade

Planting and Growing of Nightshade

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 2 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

4-8 hours

Ideal Temperature

68-86℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Nightshade?

When watering Solanum incanum, it's crucial to ensure the soil is moist but not waterlogged. A good rule of thumb is to water with approximately 250 milliliters until the water starts to drain from the bottom of the pot. This ensures that the roots receive adequate moisture without being drowned.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Nightshade? ›

What should I do if my Nightshade is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Nightshade? ›

How to save an overwatered Nightshade? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Nightshade?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun, Partial sun

Duration of light: 6-8 hours daily

Solanum incanum thrives best in full sun to partial sun conditions where it receives 6-8 hours of direct sunlight, promoting vigorous growth and improved photosynthetic activity.

Solution for Optimal Light ›

Specific Measures for Light ›

Effects of Ideal Lighting ›

More About Sunlight Requirements Techniques→

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Nightshade?

Ideal Temperature: 68 ~ 86℉

Solanum incanum thrives in warmer environments with an ideal temperature range of 68 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit. This range ensures optimal growth and fruit production by providing suitable warmth and minimizing stress factors that can hinder the plant's development. Maintaining temperatures within this range helps replicate the plant's native habitat, contributing to more vigorous growth and higher resistance to pests and diseases.

What Soil is Best for Nightshade?

Soil type: Sandy soil, Loam, Calcareous soil

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Solanum incanum thrives in well-drained soil, which helps prevent root rot and ensures the roots have adequate oxygen. This characteristic fosters healthy growth and vibrant foliage, making it essential for optimal plant development. A moderate nutrient level in the soil is ideal for Solanum incanum. Excessive nutrients can lead to overly lush foliage with fewer flowers, while too little can stunt growth. Balancing these nutrients ensures vigorous growth and an abundance of blooms. Texture affects root penetration and water retention. Solanum incanum prefers soil that is neither too compact nor too loose, which allows roots to establish effectively and facilitates balanced moisture retention and drainage.

How to Fertilize Nightshade?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Solanum incanum, apply liquid fertilizer at a rate of half the recommended dosage for typical houseplants. This ensures that the plant receives nutrients without the risk of excess nutrient buildup, which can be harmful to its health.

How to Prune Nightshade?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer, Autumn

Start by identifying any dead, damaged, or diseased branches and remove them first. Next, look for branches that are crossing or growing inwards and trim them to improve air circulation and light penetration. Aim to cut about a quarter inch above a healthy node. Prune to maintain a balanced shape, ensuring the plant grows symmetrically. Do not remove more than a third of the plant at once, as this could stress the plant. Regular shaping helps in maintaining its aesthetic appeal and promotes denser growth. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Nightshade plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early summer

Choose high-quality seeds from a reputable supplier to ensure good germination rates. Make sure the seeds are fresh and have been stored in a cool, dry place to maintain viability. Treat them with a fungicide if necessary to prevent any fungal infections during propagation.

Fill the seed starting trays with sterile potting mix and moisten it lightly. Sow the seeds evenly, maintaining desired spacing to prevent overcrowding. Lightly cover with a thin layer of the potting mix or vermiculite, and ensure the seeds receive appropriate lighting and warmth for germination.

When seedlings have developed two to three sets of true leaves, they are ready for transplanting. Carefully acclimate them to outdoor conditions by gradually increasing their exposure to sunlight over a week. Transplant them into larger pots or directly into the garden, ensuring proper spacing and soil conditions.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot Nightshade plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 1-2 years

Solanum incanum should be repotted when you notice that the roots are growing out of the drainage holes, or when water takes too long to drain after watering. Additionally, if the plant's growth seems stunted or the soil has become compacted, it's time for a change.

Select a pot that is only one size larger than the current one. It should have adequate drainage holes to prevent waterlogging. A slightly larger pot provides the roots with more space to grow without the risk of excessive soil holding too much moisture.

Opt for a light, well-draining sandy soil mix to ensure good aeration and moisture control. This keeps the roots healthy by preventing root rot and providing essential drainage that mimics the plant's natural habitat.

Toxicity

Ingestion of berries or other parts

WARNING

The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.