Description
Black Nightshade Seeds grow Solanum nigrum, described by SeedCult as the edible Indian cultivar known as Makoi or Kaage Soppu. Plants form soft branching growth with white star-shaped flowers and clusters of berries that turn glossy black when fully ripe. Because nightshade species can be confused, this listing emphasizes clear labeling, careful identification, and traditional preparation rather than casual grazing.
Why Grow It
- Solanum nigrum edible Indian cultivar as described by SeedCult, also known as Makoi or Kaage Soppu.
- Soft branching 1-3 ft. plants with white star-shaped flowers and glossy black ripe berries.
- Useful for traditional greens gardens, ethnobotanical collections, and specialty edible plantings.
- Safety matters: avoid unripe green berries, cook leaves as traditionally practiced, and keep plants away from children and pets.
Growing Information
| Botanical name | Solanum nigrum |
|---|---|
| Life cycle | Annual or short-lived perennial in zones 5-10 |
| Mature height | 1-3 ft. |
| Light | Full sun to part shade |
| Bloom or harvest window | White star-shaped flowers followed by berries that mature glossy black in warm weather |
| Flower and berry color | white star-shaped flowers, green unripe berries, and glossy black ripe berries |
| Seed count | 25 seeds |
| Sowing advice | Start indoors 6-8 weeks before transplanting or sow after frost when soil is warm. Sow shallowly in moist, well-drained seed-starting mix, keep warm, and transplant after seedlings are sturdy. |
| Spacing | Space plants about 18-24 in. apart in beds, containers, or specialty greens rows. |
| Germination | Usually 7-21 days in warm, evenly moist conditions; germination can vary with seed freshness, temperature, and light. |
Best For
- traditional Indian greens gardens
- ethnobotanical plant collections
- specialty edible plantings
- nightshade family collections
- container growing with clear labeling
Packet Details
Includes 25 seeds. Store seeds cool, dry, and dark until sowing. Label plants clearly and use the growing table above as a planning reference for your local season.
FAQ
Is black nightshade edible?
SeedCult describes this as an edible Indian cultivar of Solanum nigrum. Even so, only fully ripe black berries should be considered for culinary use, leaves should be cooked as traditionally practiced, and proper identification is essential.
Are green berries safe?
No. The source notes that unripe green berries may be toxic and must be avoided. Keep all parts of the plant away from children and pets.
Is this medical advice?
No. Any traditional or historical uses are informational only. This listing is for seeds and growing information, not medical advice or treatment guidance.
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