The world of nightshades is surprisingly huge! While some people only think of them in the kitchen, this family includes everything from backyard staples to stunning ornamental flowers. Here’s a quick guide to some of the most popular and important nightshades you can grow.
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++Blue Potato Bush (Lycianthes rantonnetii)
The Blue Potato Bush (sometimes called the Gentian Bush) is a real showstopper and a favorite for ornamental gardening. Originally from Latin America, this beauty is a common sight in gardens and on sunny balconies. It produces gorgeous purple blooms that really pop against the green foliage. Since it’s pretty low-maintenance and easy to propagate, it’s a fantastic choice for beginners looking to add some color to their space.
++Bell Peppers (Capsicum annuum)
The nightshade family isn’t just about pretty flowers—it also includes some of our favorite veggies! Peppers are a prime example. Native to Latin America, they’ve been a garden staple for centuries. Whether you like them sweet or with a little kick, there’s a variety for everyone. They come in a rainbow of colors and grow just as well in a backyard garden as they do in a pot on your balcony.
++Potatoes (Solanum tuberosum)
You can’t talk about nightshades without mentioning the humble potato. They are incredibly popular because they’re so versatile in the kitchen—from fries to mashed potatoes, the possibilities are endless! Lately, heirloom varieties have been making a huge comeback with gardeners. While most people plant them in garden beds, you can actually grow them in “grow bags” if you’re short on space or only have a balcony.
++Tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum)
Even though we treat them as vegetables in the kitchen, tomatoes are botanically fruits, and their natural sweetness definitely backs that up! They are the star of any summer salad and a must-have for home cooks. Pro tip: never store your tomatoes in the fridge! They lose their flavor and get a mealy texture in the cold, so keep them on the counter to enjoy that homegrown taste.
++Poor Man’s Orchid (Schizanthus)
Don’t let the name fool you—botanically speaking, this isn’t an orchid at all. It’s a nightshade native to the coastal regions of Chile. It earned its nickname because the intricate, colorful blooms look just like expensive orchids but are much easier to grow. They come in a variety of vibrant colors and are widely available at most garden centers, so you won’t have to hunt too hard to find one.
++Petunias (Petunia)
No list of nightshades would be complete without petunias. These are the heavy hitters of the flower world, known for their massive amount of bright, bold blooms. They are arguably the most popular choice for balcony flower boxes because they can turn a plain railing into a wall of color. They love a spot with partial shade, making them perfect for balconies that get that lovely morning sun.
++Angel’s Trumpet (Brugmansia)
If you want something truly dramatic, look no further than the Angel’s Trumpet. The blooms on this plant are huge and shaped exactly like trumpets, often in a striking yellow. They are much larger than most other nightshade flowers. To keep them happy, place them in a spot protected from the wind. Ideally, they should get some morning sun but stay shaded during the intense heat of the afternoon.
%%Chili Peppers (Capsicum frutescens)
Looking to add some spice to your life? Chili peppers are another famous member of the nightshade family. Known for their heat, these plants are surprisingly easy to grow in pots on a balcony. Not only are they great for seasoning your favorite dishes, but the bright red or orange peppers look beautiful against the green leaves. Many gardeners grow them just as much for their looks as for their flavor!
