Solanum seaforthianum
Brazilian nightshade
Tropical South America and the Caribbean
Overview
Solanum seaforthianum, Brazilian nightshade, is an evergreen perennial climber with slender twining stems reaching 2-6 m (6.5-20 ft). The leaves are 5-10 cm (2-4 in) long and pinnately divided into several leaflets. Drooping clusters of star-shaped flowers, each 2-3 cm (0.8-1.2 in) across, are purple to blue-violet with a cone of bright yellow anthers at the centre, opening through summer and autumn. The flowers are followed by hanging clusters of round berries 6-10 mm wide that ripen from green to glossy red. All parts of the plant, and the berries in particular, contain toxic glycoalkaloids that are poisonous to people and pets if eaten. Native to tropical South America, it has naturalised in warm parts of Australia, where birds spread the seed and it grows into bushland. Solanum seaforthianum is listed as an environmental weed in Queensland and other regions. It is frost-tender and grows fastest in warm, moist, sheltered sites.
Native Range
Native to tropical South America and the Caribbean. It has naturalised in warm regions of Australia and elsewhere, growing along forest margins, fence lines, and disturbed bushland.Suggested Uses
Sometimes grown as an ornamental climber on fences and trellises in frost-free gardens for its purple flowers and red berries. Its weediness and toxic berries limit its use, and it is removed as an environmental weed in many warm regions. Garden alternatives are often chosen in its place where it is invasive.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height6'7" - 19'8"
Width/Spread3'3" - 9'10"
Bloom Information
Detailed Descriptions
Flower Description
purple to blue-violetFoliage Description
greenGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 4-10 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight