Nightshade family — Solanaceae

Most nightshade family are not pet-safe. Of the 124 nightshade family in the Growli library, 105 (85%) carry a toxic or mildly-toxic ASPCA classification and 19 are pet-safe. They are not uniformly safe, so always confirm the exact species on its pet-safety page before trusting it around cats or dogs.

Most nightshade family want plenty of direct sun — 113 of the 124 in our library do best there. If yours stretches toward the window or loses its variegation it needs more light; scorched or bleached leaves mean it is getting too much.

Some nightshade family suit experienced growers — several want strong light, sharp drainage or a specific seasonal rhythm. Check the individual species page for the exact regime before you buy.

The Solanaceae family — the nightshade family — groups 124 species across 15 genera in the Growli library, most prominently Solanum, Capsicum, Petunia. Members share a broadly similar light, water and soil pattern, which is why it pays to learn the family before the individual plant.