1. * Bluewitch Nightshade – Solanum umbelliferum
(so-LAN-num um-bell-IF-er-um)
Family: Solanaceae (Nightshade Family)
Native to: Central and southwestern CA from Mendocino County to Baja. Also in AZ; on dry, brushcovered slopes & valleys in chaparral and low-elevation oak woodlands.
herbaceous sub-shrub
mature height: 2-4 ft.
mature width: 3-5 ft.
Perennial or sub-shrub from a woody base.
Fast growing with light greenish, woody branches and
an open habit. Branches are hairy. Oval leaves are dark gray-green, typical shape for Nightshade
family. Attractive plant. Caution: all parts of the plant are toxic if eaten.
Growth characteristics:
Blooms in spring/summer. Flowers are typical in shape for the Nightshades, but
are quite large (to over 1 inch). Fused petals are blue-purple that contrast with yellow-orange
stamens. Flowers close at night.
Purple berries in summer-fall.
Blooms/fruits:
Uses in the garden: Good choice for under native oaks or in oak woodland or chaparral themed
gardens.
Does very well on dry slopes, where it binds the soil.
Dry perennial beds/borders.
Cultivar ‘Spring Frost’ has white flowers and is slightly smaller (2 ft x 2 ft).
Sensible substitute for: Non-native perennial flowers.
Attracts: Excellent bee habitat – produces good pollen. Birds eat the fruits.
Requirements:
Element
Sun
Soil
Water
Fertilizer
Other
Requirement
Full sun to part-shade.
Any well-drained soil; clays if on slopes.
Very drought tolerant (Zone 1 or 1-2), but can take some water (Zone 2) and will
stay green.
None needed.
Management:
Quite easy. Prune to shape and remove dead branches.
Propagation: from seed: hot water treatment; may need cold-moist treatment
by cuttings: ??
Plant/seed sources (see list for source numbers): 3, 8
7/22/10
* CA native plant but not native to Western L.A. county
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