Solanum triflorum
Solanum triflorum
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Pl. 69B4 — Solanum triflorum
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IOverview
Overview
Solanum triflorum, commonly known as the five-flowered nightshade, is an annual forb or herb native to regions in North America and South America, including parts of Alberta, Arizona, British Columbia, and various states from California to Wyoming. This plant thrives in a variety of soil types, ranging from light (sandy) to heavy (clay), with a preference for slightly alkaline conditions (pH 7.5–8). Known for its edible fruit, it can be found growing wild or cultivated where suitable conditions are met. One distinctive feature is its height, reaching up to 0.8 meters; another notable characteristic is its habitat adaptability across diverse regions in North and South America.
Quick answers
What is Solanum triflorum?
Solanum triflorum, commonly known as the five-flowered nightshade, is an annual forb or herb native to regions in North America and South America, including parts of Alberta, Arizona, British Columbia, and various states from California to Wyoming.
What is Solanum triflorum used for?
Traditionally used for immune support, digestion. Each claim is evidence-rated — see Section II for full citations.
Best for
Top 2 evidence-ranked uses of Solanum triflorum
Clinicaluses · safety · chemistry · dosagemedicinal profile
IIBenefits & evidence
2 claims · 0 sources
Benefits & evidence
2 claims · 0 sources- Solanum triflorum is traditionally used to support immune function, often prepared as a tea or decoction during times of seasonal illness.
The mechanism is not fully characterized but may involve the presence of alkaloids and other secondary metabolites that have immunomodulatory effects.
- Solanum triflorum has been traditionally used in South American herbal medicine for digestive issues, often prepared as a decoction to soothe the stomach and aid digestion.
The mechanism is not fully characterized but may involve compounds that interact with gut motility or reduce inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract.
IV·bMixology suggestions
1 draft
Mixology suggestions
1 draftEditorial drafts. These pairings are AI-suggested from traditional herbal lore. Always verify with a qualified herbalist before brewing.
Solanum triflorum support blend
generaltea
AI returned a direct ingredient list; normalized into one draft blend for editorial review.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Solanum triflorum thrives in well-drained soils ranging from light sandy to heavy clay, with a preferred pH of 7.5–8. It requires moist but not overly wet conditions and prefers full sun to partial shade. This annual plant grows up to 0.8 meters tall and is hardy in temperate regions. For best results, sow seeds directly into the garden after all danger of frost has passed. Harvest the fruit when ripe for consumption.
Light
9/10
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Life cycle
Annual
Habit
Forb/herb
Mature size
0.8 m tall
Soil pH
7.5–8
For first-time growers
How to grow Solanum triflorum for the first time
8steps
Start with Solanum triflorum as a simple annual plant, focusing on basic care and maintenance.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds or seedlings, planting container or garden bed, potting soil if using containers.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in late spring after the last frost, when temperatures are consistently above 10°C.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure well-draining soil with a pH between 7.5–8; use containers at least 30 cm deep for good root growth.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds in the garden after danger of frost, or start seedlings indoors about 4 weeks before planting out.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged; protect from strong winds and direct sun during this period.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide consistent watering, especially in dry conditions; fertilize lightly every 4–6 weeks with a balanced organic fertilizer.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune back any dead or yellowing leaves to encourage healthy growth and prevent disease spread; harvest fruits when they are fully colored but still firm.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting too deep, neglecting regular pruning, using chemical fertilizers, not providing enough support for the plant's height.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Fruit
Edible uses: The fruit of Solanum triflorum is edible and can be eaten raw or cooked. It is commonly prepared in dishes where a tomato-like flavor would be suitable. The plant thrives in light to medium soil with a pH between 7.5 and 8.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
30 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
30 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 30 native
Americas1 region
native (1)Peru
Broader regions
native:New Mexico, South Dakota, Argentina South, Nevada, Oklahoma, Colorado, Connecticut, Argentina Northeast, Nebraska, Argentina Northwest, Ohio, Ontario, Oregon, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, District of Columbia, Arizona, Galápagos, Alberta, Idaho, British Columbia, Iowa, North Dakota, Kansas, California, Manitoba, Tennessee
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family, common use cases, and growing requirements.
shared use cases
Different families, similar therapeutic role — good for comparing.
XI
Explore further
Companion planting
Health goals
Compare with similar plants
XII
About this entry
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