Woolly nightshade
Solanum mauritianum · Solanaceae
The gardener's calendar
In autumn, ease off feeding and take the chance to clean up around woolly nightshade and prepare for winter.
ID card
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Flowering
- Spring to autumn, violet or blue flowers
- Adult size
- 2 to 4 m in height
- Growth
- Fast
- Hardiness
- Tropical to subtropical climate, frost-sensitive
- Origin
- Mauritius (endemic)
- Soil type
- Well-drained, fertile
Care
Watering
Water regularly during the growing season, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. Reduce watering in winter or during dry periods. Once established, the nightshade tolerates moderate drought, but prefers consistent moisture for beautiful flowering.
Light Exposure
Place your nightshade in full sun or partial shade for optimal flowering. It appreciates warm, bright locations. Too much shade reduces flower production and can weaken the plant.
Pruning and Training
Prune after flowering to encourage a bushy, compact shape. Remove dead or diseased branches as needed. Light annual pruning maintains a balanced silhouette and stimulates branching.
Fertilizing
Apply balanced fertilizer in spring and summer, every 4 to 6 weeks. Potassium-rich fertilizer promotes flowering. Reduce feeding in winter or during relative dormancy.
Substrate and Soil
Use fertile, well-draining potting soil enriched with organic matter. The nightshade fears waterlogging. Improve drainage with sand or gravel chips if your soil is heavy. A neutral to slightly alkaline pH is ideal.
Pests and Diseases
Watch for scale insects and whiteflies in dry or hot conditions. Powdery mildew can appear with excessive humidity and stagnant air. Maintain good air circulation and inspect foliage regularly to intervene quickly.
Did you know?
The nightshade is endemic to the island of Mauritius, where it grows naturally in tropical regions. Its scientific name Solanum mauritianum pays homage to this island origin. As a member of the Solanaceae family, it is a botanical cousin of the tomato and eggplant, though its fruits are not edible.
Where to buy it
Best planted in autumn so the roots settle in before summer, or in early spring once the frost has passed. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, October, November.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- TomatoSolanum lycopersicum
- Sweet pepperCapsicum annuum
- EggplantSolanum melongena
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- Night jessamineCestrum nocturnum
- Potato vineSolanum laxum
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.