Glossy Nightshade
Solanum ptychanthum
Last reviewed: June 2026
Glossy Nightshade is toxic to dogs and cats.
Listed as toxic by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (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
ID
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
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.
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 Glossy Nightshade and shows pet-safe natives for your ecoregion instead.