Catalina Nightshade
Solanum xanti
Last reviewed: July 2026
Solanum xanti is a drought-tolerant native California shrub that produces purple flowers from April through July. This Catalina Nightshade attracts bees and butterflies while requiring minimal water once established.
Catalina Nightshade is toxic to dogs and cats.
Listed as toxic by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (opens in new tab) (last reviewed 2026-05-21). If your pet has been exposed, call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435and your veterinarian's emergency line.
Pollinator Patch flags toxic plants so you can choose a pet-safe native alternative for your yard.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
24"–60" H × 24"–48" W
Bloom
Apr, May, Jun, Jul
Native to
CA
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Catalina nightshade is an attractive native shrub with purple-blue star-shaped flowers that bloom spring through summer. It features evergreen foliage with velvety leaves and grows into a rounded form 2-5 feet tall. This drought-tolerant perennial works well in borders or as a foundation plant.
Growing Catalina Nightshade
Grow Catalina Nightshade in full sun and low water. Mature plants reach 24 to 60 inches tall and spread 24 to 48 inches wide. Expect moderate maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Catalina Nightshade is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: moderate. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.
Works well in: foundation, mid zone.
- Member of the nightshade family which some HOAs may question
- Can look somewhat informal or wild without periodic pruning
- May need to be kept away from high-visibility areas
Wildlife value
The bright flowers attract native bees and butterflies, making it an excellent pollinator plant. Birds may also be drawn to the small berries that follow flowering.
Common questions
- When does Solanum xanti bloom?
- Catalina Nightshade typically blooms from April through July, producing clusters of purple flowers that attract pollinators.
- What pollinators visit Solanum xanti?
- Bees and butterflies are the primary pollinators of Catalina Nightshade, attracted to its purple blooms during the spring and summer months.
- How much water does Catalina Nightshade need?
- Solanum xanti is drought-tolerant and thrives with low water conditions once established, making it ideal for xeriscaping and water-wise gardens.
- Is Catalina Nightshade toxic to dogs?
- Yes. Catalina Nightshade is listed as toxic to dogs by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (aspca.org). If your pet has been exposed, call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.
- Is Catalina Nightshade toxic to cats?
- Yes. Catalina Nightshade is listed as toxic to cats by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (aspca.org). If your cat has been exposed, call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.
- Is Catalina Nightshade HOA-friendly?
- Catalina Nightshade is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with moderate maintenance.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Pollinator Patch flags toxic plants like Catalina Nightshade and shows pet-safe natives for your ecoregion instead.
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