black nightshade

plant

Also known as: Solanum nigrum

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Last updated

July 23, 2026

Quick Summary

Black nightshade, scientifically known as Solanum nigrum, is a species within the nightshade genus (Solanum), which comprises about 2,300 species of flowering plants. This particular species is a cosmopolitan weed characterized by its hairy, poisonous foliage and white flowers. While generally considered poisonous, its fully ripened fruit and foliage are cooked and consumed in some regions. The genus Solanum also includes important food crops like the tomato, potato, and eggplant. Plants outside the Solanum genus, such as deadly nightshade (Atropa belladonna), are also referred to as nightshades but belong to different families.12

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nightshade
The black nightshade (S. nigrum) is also generally considered poisonous, but its fully ripened fruit and foliage are cooked and eaten in some areas.
Read More
The black nightshade (S. nigrum) is also generally considered poisonous, but its fully ripened fruit and foliage are cooked and eaten in some areas.
Read More