TROPICAL PLANT ENCYCLOPEDIA


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Solanum dulcamara, Bittersweet Nightshade, Climbing Nightshade

Solanum dulcamara

Bittersweet Nightshade, Climbing Nightshade
Family: Solanaceae
Origin: Europe, Asia
USDA Zone: 5-9?
USDA Plant Hardiness MapVine or creeper plantSemi-shadeFull sunModerate waterRegular waterBlue, lavender, purple flowersPlant attracts butterflies, hummingbirdsEthnomedical plant.
Plants marked as ethnomedical and/or described as medicinal, are not offered as medicine but rather as ornamentals or plant collectibles.
Ethnomedical statements / products have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. We urge all customers to consult a physician before using any supplements, herbals or medicines advertised here or elsewhere.Subtropical or temperate zone plant. Mature plant cold hardy at least to 30s F for a short time

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.


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Link to this plant:
https://toptropicals.com/catalog/uid/solanum_dulcamara.htm