Black Nightshade is a weedy annual herb with small white star-shaped flowers and clusters of small berries that ripen from green to glossy black. It is one of the most widespread plants on Earth, found on every inhabited continent, and is common in gardens, roadsides, and disturbed ground across North America. The ripe berries have been used as food after cooking in many cultures, but unripe berries are toxic and all plant parts should be treated with caution. Birds consume ripe berries and disperse seeds widely.
Best time to see a Black Nightshade
The best time to see a Black Nightshade is March–August, when about 60% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 13,063 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
Not certain it is a Black Nightshade? What plant is this? walks through what to check first and the lookalikes that catch people out.
Recent Black Nightshade sightings near you
Live, research-grade observations from iNaturalist. Allow location to center the map on you.
Spotted a Black Nightshade?
Point Huck at any plant, bird, or animal and know for sure - plus a live map of where it is being spotted near you.