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Glossy Nightshade

Solanum ptychanthum

Last reviewed: July 2026

Glossy Nightshade (Solanum ptychanthum)
Photo: (c) Michael J. Papay, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Michael J. Papay

Glossy 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

part sun

Water

medium

Size

12"–36" H × 12"–24" W

Bloom

Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep

Native to

AL, AR, CT, DE and 34 more states

Pollinators

bees, beetles

Browse plants for this ecoregion

Central Oklahoma/Texas PlainsEdwards PlateauEast Central Texas PlainsWestern Gulf Coastal PlainSouth Central Plains

Glossy nightshade is a native annual herb that grows up to 3 feet tall with small white flowers blooming from June through September. This wild plant produces small dark berries and has a somewhat weedy appearance typical of the nightshade family.

In an HOA neighborhood

Glossy Nightshade takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Works well in: backyard only.

  • Looks weedy and informal
  • Nightshade family plants often raise safety concerns
  • Annual growth habit creates inconsistent appearance

Wildlife value

The flowers attract bees and beetles during the long summer blooming period. Birds may also consume the small berries produced later in the season.

Common questions

How much sun does Glossy Nightshade need?
Glossy Nightshade grows best in part sun conditions.
When does Glossy Nightshade bloom?
Glossy Nightshade blooms in June, July, August, and September.
Where is Glossy Nightshade native?
Glossy Nightshade (Solanum ptychanthum) is native to AL, AR, CT, DE and 34 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
Is Glossy Nightshade toxic to dogs?
Yes. Glossy 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 Glossy Nightshade toxic to cats?
Yes. Glossy 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.
What pollinators does Glossy Nightshade attract?
Glossy Nightshade draws bees and beetles.
Is Glossy Nightshade HOA-friendly?
Glossy Nightshade takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

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.

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