Solanum dulcamara

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Solanum dulcamara or Bittersweet Nightshade is native to Europe, Asia and parts of the United States and hardy in USDA Zone 5 -9. This semi-woody, herbaceous perennial vine grows from 1 to 4 meters high and spreads by crawling over other plants. If given suitable support, this deciduous climber can extend to about 4 m high. The leaves are alternate and ovate, slender pointed and have a greyish green color. The flowers of this plant have five pointed petals, which can be seen in shades of lavender, purple and blue. These flowers attract butterflies and hummingbirds in the summer and are followed by clusters of red berries.

For growing and caring for this plant, it should be placed in full sun, but can tolerate partial shade. It should also be watered regularly and moderately. In cold regions, the plant should be grown in pots to protect it against freezing temperatures. It is mature plant cold hardy at least to 30s F for a short time. It is an ethnomedical plant and has been used in folk medicine for centuries.

In conclusion, Solanum dulcamara is an interesting, yet toxic, vine or creeper with attractive blue, lavender, and purple flowers that attract butterflies and hummingbirds. It is native to Europe and Asia, can grow up to 4 meters high and is mature plant cold hardy at least to 30s F for a short time. It should be kept in full sun or semi-shade with regular to moderate water. In cold regions, the plant should be grown in pots to protect from freezing temperatures.

Similar plants:

• Solanum aculeatissimum, Solanum capsicoides (Cockroach berry, Indian Love Apple, Soda Apple, Devils Apple)
• Solanum atropurpureum (Malevolence, Purple Devil)
• Solanum bahamense (Bahama Nightshade)
• Solanum betaceum, Cyphomandra crassicaulis, Cyphomandra betacea, Pionandra betacea, Solanum crassifolium (Tamarillo, Tree Tomato, Tomate Arbol)
• Solanum bonariense, Solanum grandiflorum (Granadillo)
• Solanum capsicastrum (Winter Cherry, False Jerusalem Cherry, Christmas Cherry)
• Solanum conocarpum (Marron Bacoba)
• Solanum diphyllum (Twoleaf nightshade)
• Solanum elaeagnifolium (Silverleaf Nightshade)
• Solanum gilo (Scarlet Eggplant, Gilo, Jilo)