Climbing Nightshade: A Non-Native Perennial with Garden Considerations
Meet climbing nightshade (Solanum dulcamara var. villosissimum), a perennial herb that’s made itself at home across much of North America despite its non-native origins. This interesting plant belongs to the nightshade family and has carved out its own niche in various landscapes, though it comes with some important considerations for gardeners.
What Is Climbing Nightshade?
Climbing nightshade is classified as a forb herb – essentially a vascular plant that doesn’t develop significant woody tissue above ground. Unlike trees and shrubs that build up thick, woody stems over time, this perennial maintains softer, herbaceous growth while its perennating buds hunker down at or below ground level to survive winter.
The variety villosissimum is distinguished by its particularly hairy characteristics, though specific details about its appearance and growth habits require careful observation in the field.
Native Status and Geographic Distribution
Here’s where things get interesting – climbing nightshade isn’t actually native to North America. This non-native species has established itself across both Canada and the lower 48 states, reproducing spontaneously in the wild without human assistance and showing a strong tendency to persist once established.
You’ll find this variety growing across a diverse range of locations, from the Maritime provinces of New Brunswick and Nova Scotia down through Quebec, and scattered across states including Connecticut, Illinois, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and even Newfoundland.
Should You Plant Climbing Nightshade?
This is where gardeners need to think carefully. While climbing nightshade isn’t currently listed as invasive or noxious, its non-native status and ability to establish and persist in wild areas means it’s worth considering native alternatives first.
If you’re drawn to this plant for specific reasons, it’s not necessarily off-limits, but responsible gardening suggests exploring native options that can provide similar benefits while supporting local ecosystems.
Growing Conditions and Care
Unfortunately, specific growing requirements for this particular variety aren’t well-documented in readily available sources. This lack of detailed cultivation information is actually quite common with specific plant varieties, especially those that aren’t commonly cultivated.
If you’re determined to grow climbing nightshade, you’ll likely need to:
- Observe existing plants in your area to understand their preferred conditions
- Start with small trials in different garden locations
- Monitor carefully for any aggressive spreading behavior
- Be prepared to manage or remove the plant if it becomes problematic
Better Native Alternatives
Before committing to a non-native species, consider these approaches:
- Contact your local native plant society for recommendations of indigenous climbing or trailing plants
- Visit local botanical gardens or nature centers to see native alternatives in action
- Consult with regional gardening experts who understand your local ecosystem
The Bottom Line
Climbing nightshade represents an interesting case study in non-native plants that have established themselves across North America. While it’s not currently flagged as invasive or noxious, its non-native status and successful establishment in wild areas suggest caution.
For most gardeners, exploring native alternatives will provide better ecological benefits while still achieving desired garden effects. If you do choose to grow this variety, do so thoughtfully and with careful monitoring to ensure it doesn’t escape cultivation and impact local plant communities.
Remember, the best garden plants are often those that work harmoniously with local ecosystems – and in most cases, that means going native!
