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Deadly nightshade

Atropa belladonna · Solanaceae

The gardener's calendar

The right move for September

Ideal time to plant deadly nightshade: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.

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ID card

Foliage
Deciduous
Flowering
June to August, tubular flowers in violet or brown
Adult size
0.6 to 1.5 m in height
Growth
Fast
Hardiness
Down to -15°C
Origin
Southern Europe, North Africa, Western Asia
Soil type
Well-drained, rich in organic matter

Care

Watering

Keep the soil regularly moist, especially during growth and flowering. Avoid excess water which causes root rot. Reduce watering in autumn and limit it in winter.

Light exposure

Place belladonna in a sunny or semi-shaded location. It tolerates partial shade well, ideal if your region is very hot. A minimum of 4 to 5 hours of sunlight per day promotes beautiful flowering.

Pruning and cutting

Prune lightly after flowering to maintain a compact and balanced shape. Remove dead or damaged stems in late winter. Wear gloves when handling, as a simple precaution.

Fertilizing

Apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season (April to August). Prefer moderate feeding: excess nitrogen promotes foliage at the expense of flowering.

Soil and planting

Plant in well-drained soil enriched with compost or peat. Add sand if the soil is too clayey. Avoid water accumulation in winter, which promotes fungal diseases.

Diseases and pests

Watch for powdery mildew and leaf spots in humid conditions; ensure good air circulation. Aphids may occasionally appear; a simple water rinse is usually sufficient. Few major pests under normal conditions.

Did you know?

Belladonna played a fascinating role in history: in the Middle Ages and Renaissance, women applied its diluted extracts to their eyes to achieve enlarged pupils (considered a sign of beauty and health). The name itself, 'belladonna,' means 'beautiful lady' in Italian. However, this practice was extremely dangerous due to the plant's toxicity.

Where to buy it

Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.

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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.