Solanum nigrum, commonly known as Black Nightshade, is a species of flowering plant in the nightshade family (Solanaceae). It is found worldwide, including in Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Americas. In many African regions, it's cultivated and consumed as a traditional leafy vegetable and medicinal plant.
🌿 Quick Facts about Solanum nigrum
Feature Description
Common Names Black nightshade, managu (Kenya), mnavu (Tanzania), nsugu (Uganda)
Plant Type Annual or short-lived perennial herb
Height 30–120 cm (1–4 feet)
Leaves Ovate, soft, dark green, mildly bitter
Flowers Small, white, star-shaped
Fruits Green turning black when ripe, berry-like
Origin Native to Eurasia but now widespread globally
🍽️ Uses
Culinary (Mainly in Africa & Asia)
Leaves are edible once cooked (boiled or sautéed).
Often cooked with tomatoes, onions, or groundnuts.
Young shoots and tender leaves are preferred.
Medicinal (Traditional)
Used to treat stomachaches, fevers, and skin ailments.
In some regions, used to manage high blood pressure, diabetes, and inflammation.
⚠️ Toxicity
Leaves are slightly toxic (alkaloids) but safe when cooked
Unripe fruits are toxic and not recommended to eat
Ripe fruits sometimes eaten in small quantities (check local practices),Varies by variety
Contains solanine and related alkaloids.
Cooking significantly reduces toxicity.
Bitter taste often indicates higher alkaloid content.
🌾 How to Grow
Climate: Warm, frost-free
Soil: Well-drained, moderately fertile
Propagation: By seed (easy to germinate)
Maintenance: Regular watering, full sun to partial shade
Harvest: 30–60 days after planting; young leaves are best
🧪 Nutritional Value (per 100g cooked leaves)
Calories ~40 kcal
Protein ~4 g
Vitamin A High
Iron Moderate-High
Calcium Moderate
Fiber Good source
