Solanum furcatum
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Solanum furcatum

Forked nightshade

Tier 1 Difficulty: medium Water: low Light: full_sun
Temperature
15–37 °C
Soil pH
6–7
Hardiness
Zone 8–11
Click count
409
Observations
9

Description

Source: leafsnap

Solanum furcatum is a species of plant in the family Solanaceae known by the common name forked nightshade. It is native to South America. It is known elsewhere as an introduced species.

Care Guide

💧 Water
☀️ Light Full sun

Forked nightshade is a sun-loving, perennial herbaceous plant native to open habitats and commonly found flourishing in meadows and grasslands. It prefers full sun but can also tolerate partial sun.

Ideal: Full sun
FAQ
How much sunlight does Forked nightshade (Solanum furcatum) require?

Forked nightshade (Solanum furcatum) thrives under different sunlight conditions depending on its specific needs. For full sun exposure, it requires above 6 hours of sunlight per day, making it perfect for areas that receive a generous amount of direct sunlight. Alternatively, if the plant is placed in an area with partial sun, it should receive about 3-6 hours of sunlight daily. This flexibility allows you to choose the best spot in your garden that ensures both light and shade are balanced optimally for the plant's happiness. It's important to observe how sunlight moves through your garden to select the most suitable location for your Forked nightshade.

🌡️ Temperature 15–37.8°C

Forked nightshade can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, but its distribution can still be limited by different mixes of water and heat conditions. It grows best in warm summer climates with sufficient rainfall or watering. Long periods of cloudy, rainy weather or prolonged high temperatures increase the risk of Forked nightshade dying. In winter, adequate protection from the cold can improve the plant's chances of survival.

Ideal temperature: 15–37.8°C
FAQ
What is the botanic name of Forked nightshade?

The botanic name of Forked nightshade is Solanum furcatum.

💨 Humidity
Humidity:
🪴 Soil 6-7
Soil pH: 6-7
🌱 Fertilizer

Usually one fertilizer application in spring is enough for Forked nightshade, but repeated feedings can maximize its growth. Fertilize about every month to six weeks. Feeding improves the leaves' appearance and function, helping maintain even color and a healthy texture. It also promotes root development and nutrient uptake, supporting the plant's long-term health.

🪴 Pot & Repot
✂️ Pruning

Forked nightshade has distinctive forked stems and benefits greatly from regular pruning. Key techniques include removing dead stems and thinning crowded areas to improve airflow. For the best growth, flowering, and fruit production, prune the plant in early spring. This will help maintain the plant's overall health and reduce the risk of disease.

🌿 Propagating
🐛 Diseases & pets
☠️ Toxicity

Characteristics

Plant Type
Herb
Life Cycle
Perennial
Genus
Solanum
Family
Solanaceae
Hardiness Zone
8-11
Mature Height
30 cm to 76 cm
Mature Spread
40 cm to 61 cm
Leaf Color
Green, Dark Green
Leaf Type
Evergreen
Flower Color
White, Lavender
Flower Size
1.02 cm to 1.52 cm
Bloom Time
Late spring, Summer, Early fall, Mid fall
Planting Time
Spring, Summer
Harvest Time
Mid summer, Late summer, Fall, Early winter
Native Area
Ecuador, Peru

Tags (4)

Common Names (1)

en Forked nightshade