Climbing Nightshade: A Beautiful But Problematic Plant You Should Avoid
Climbing nightshade (Solanum dulcamara var. dulcamara) might catch your eye with its charming purple flowers and bright red berries, but this perennial vine is one plant you’ll want to steer clear of in your garden. While it may seem appealing at first glance, this non-native species brings more trouble than beauty to North American landscapes.
What is Climbing Nightshade?
Climbing nightshade is a perennial forb that behaves more like a woody vine than your typical herbaceous plant. Despite being classified as a forb (a vascular plant without significant woody tissue), it can climb and sprawl extensively, making it a vigorous ground cover or climbing plant depending on available support structures.
This plant is not native to North America – it originally hails from Europe and Asia. Unfortunately, it has made itself quite at home across our continent, establishing populations from coast to coast.
Where You’ll Find It
Climbing nightshade has spread remarkably across North America since its introduction. You can find established populations throughout Canada in British Columbia, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Ontario, Prince Edward Island, Quebec, Saskatchewan, and Newfoundland. In the United States, it grows in virtually every state, from California to Florida, and from Washington to Maine.
Why You Should Think Twice
While climbing nightshade produces attractive purple flowers with bright yellow centers followed by glossy red berries, there are several compelling reasons to avoid planting it:
- Aggressive spreader: This plant reproduces both by seed and vegetatively, allowing it to quickly colonize areas
- Toxic properties: All parts of the plant contain alkaloids that are poisonous to humans, pets, and livestock
- Ecological impact: As a non-native species, it can outcompete native plants and disrupt local ecosystems
- Difficult to control: Once established, climbing nightshade can be challenging to eradicate
Native Alternatives to Consider
Instead of planting climbing nightshade, consider these beautiful native alternatives that provide similar aesthetic appeal without the problems:
- American groundnut (Apios americana): A native climbing vine with fragrant purple flowers
- Wild ginger (Asarum canadense): An excellent native ground cover for shaded areas
- Coral honeysuckle (Lonicera sempervirens): A native climbing vine with tubular red flowers loved by hummingbirds
- Virginia creeper (Parthenocissus quinquefolia): A native climbing vine with beautiful fall color
If You Encounter It
If you discover climbing nightshade already growing on your property, it’s best to remove it carefully. Wear gloves when handling the plant due to its toxic properties, and dispose of plant material properly – don’t compost it. For large infestations, you may need to consult with local extension services or land management professionals.
Growing Conditions (For Identification Purposes)
Understanding where climbing nightshade thrives can help you identify it in the wild. This adaptable plant grows in:
- USDA hardiness zones 4-8
- Various soil types, though it prefers moist conditions
- Partial shade to full sun
- Areas near water sources, woodland edges, and disturbed sites
The Bottom Line
While climbing nightshade might seem like an attractive option for gardeners seeking a hardy, flowering vine, its invasive tendencies and toxic properties make it a poor choice for responsible gardening. Instead, explore the many beautiful native alternatives that will provide similar aesthetic benefits while supporting local wildlife and ecosystems. Your garden – and your local environment – will thank you for making the native choice.
