Black Nightshade
Solanum nigrum · Solanaceae
How it looks
Black Nightshade is a nightshade-family plant with small white star-shaped flowers clustered along the branches, and in autumn small black or green round berries hang in clusters. The leaves are oval to lance-shaped and arranged alternately, and it grows 12–24 in (30–60 cm) tall. It is common in the wild.
Caution — monitor for GI symptoms
All parts of Black Nightshade (especially the fruit) contain irritating compounds that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and depression if chewed. Most cats recover on their own, but as a caution-level plant it still calls for monitoring.
Guide for parents
An occasional nibble on Black Nightshade rarely leads to serious trouble, but the solanine it contains irritates the stomach and mucous membranes, causing mild digestive upset. Make a habit of picking up fallen leaves and broken stems the same day, and keep the pot out of your cat's reach. If symptoms last more than 12 hours or your cat's appetite drops noticeably, consult your vet.
If ingested
Contact your nearest vet immediately
- Onset
- 1–4 hours after ingestion
- Symptoms
- Vomiting, diarrhea, depression, tremors
- Action
- Consult a vet and monitor. Go in immediately if symptoms worsen.
Details
- Scientific name
- Solanum nigrum
- Common name
- Black Nightshade
- Family
- Solanaceae
- Toxic parts
- All parts (especially the fruit)
- Compounds
- Solanine
- Onset
- 1–4 hours after ingestion
- Symptoms
- Vomiting, diarrhea, depression, tremors
- Action
- Consult a vet and monitor. Go in immediately if symptoms worsen.
- Source
- ASPCA
Related plants
Same plant family· Solanaceae
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