Plant guide

bittersweet nightshade.

Solanum dulcamara

Pronounced so-LAY-num dul-ka-MAR-ah

Also known as Bitter Nightshade, Bittersweet, Bittersweet Nightshade, Bittersweet, Woody Nightshade, Blue Nightshade, Climbing Nightshade, Dulcamara, European Bittersweet

This woody vine is a common sight in wetlands and hedgerows across many temperate regions. It is known for its distinct star shaped purple flowers and bright red berries. Please be careful as this plant is considered an invasive weed in many areas.

At a glance

Care level: Easy
Plant type: Perennial vine
Light: Full sun to partial shade
Indoor light: Bright indirect
Water: Every 3 to 7 days
Mature size: 8 feet
Growth rate: Fast

Care

Keep the soil consistently moist for best results. Watch for yellowing leaves which often signal poor drainage. It is a vigorous grower so keep an eye on its spread.

Watering: Keep the soil damp but not waterlogged.
Feeding: Use a balanced liquid fertilizer during the growing season.
Pruning: Trim back in late winter to manage its size.
Repotting: Move to a larger container once the roots fill the current pot.
Soil: Moist, fertile soil
Soil pH: 6.0 to 7.5

Safety

Pets: This plant is toxic to cats and dogs if ingested.

How to identify it

Star shaped purple flowers
Bright red oval berries
Heart shaped leaves at base
Woody climbing stems

Science

Family: Solanaceae
Genus: Solanum
Order: Solanales
Class: Magnoliopsida

Taxonomy resolved against GBIF.

Also in

Plants toxic to cats and dogs

Is your bittersweet nightshade looking unwell?

This page is a general guide. Pocket Botanist diagnoses problems from a photo of your actual plant, works out watering for your light and conditions, and reminds you when care is due.

Get the app

This guide was generated with AI and checked against GBIF taxonomy. It is general information, not horticultural or veterinary advice. Read about how we build these guides.