Woolly Nightshade

(Solanum mauritianum)

Woolly Nightshade (Solanum mauritianum)

/

return to results
Previous Plant Next Plant

/

Solanum mauritianum image
scroll forward scroll backward
scroll forward scroll backward
Estimated Native Range
Species Map Help

Summary

Solanum mauritianum, commonly known as woolly nightshade or flannel weed, is a semi-evergreen shrub or small tree native to subtropical montane forests, forest edges, and riparian zones in South America, particularly in northern Argentina, southern Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay. It can grow up to 33 feet tall with a similar spread, and it features large, grey-green, ovate-elliptical leaves that can be up to 16 inches long, covered with a soft, downy texture. The slightly scented purple flowers with a yellow center appear in cymes and are followed by spherical yellow berries that may be toxic if ingested. Flowering occurs mainly in spring and summer, and the flowers are moderately showy.

Woolly nightshade is valued for its rapid growth and dense foliage, which can provide quick screening or hedging in suitable climates. It is also used for revegetation projects in its native range. However, due to its invasive potential, it is not recommended for planting in areas where it is not native. In cultivation, it prefers full sun to part shade, well-drained soils, and moderate water, although it can tolerate drought once established. It is relatively low-maintenance but may require pruning to control its size and shape.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Shrub, Tree
  • Height: 4-20 feet
  • Width: 4-20 feet
  • Growth Rate: Rapid
  • Flower Color: Purple
  • Flowering Season: Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium, Fast

Common Uses

Showy Flowers

Natural Habitat

Subtropical montane forests, forest edges, and riparian zones in South America

Other Names

Common Names: Woolly Nightshade, Bugweed, Bois De Tabac Marron, Bringellier Marron, Bugtree, Couvetinga, Flannel Weed, Fumeira

Scientific Names: , Solanum mauritianum, Solanum auriculatum, Solanum carterianum, Solanum pulverulentum, Solanum tabaccifolium, Solanum verbascifolium subsp. auriculatum, Solanum verbascifolium subsp. auriculatum, Solanum verbascifolium subsp. typicum, Solanum verbascifolium var. auriculatum

GBIF Accepted Name: