Solanum elaeagnifolium
Silverleaf Nightshade is a native perennial featuring silvery-grey foliage, sharp stem prickles, and vibrant violet-blue star flowers with bright yellow stamens. Containing toxic solasodine alkaloids, it is unpalatable to cattle but plays a vital ecological role. Its deep underground creeping roots stabilize disturbed dry soils, while its flowers rely on buzz pollination by native bumblebees.
Height: 1-3 ft.
Spread: 2-5 ft.
Foliage: Deciduous
Growth Rate: Moderate
Water Need: Low
Sun Need: Part Sun, Full Sun
Substrate / Soil: Limestone, Loam, Gravelly
Bloom Season: Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct
This species serves as an essential host plant for caterpillar larvae of: Carolina Sphinx Moth, Tobacco Hornworm.
← Return to Native Plants Directory
