Broadleaf Weeds - St Augustine Lawn - Silverleaf Nightshade
BES-TEX Weed ID Guide · Broadleaf Weeds
Silverleaf Nightshade
Solanum elaeagnifolium
Common Name
Silverleaf Nightshade
Latin Name
Solanum elaeagnifolium
Family
Solanaceae
Life Cycle / Type
Perennial · Broadleaf
What Is It?
Silverleaf nightshade is a deep-rooted perennial broadleaf weed with silver-gray, fuzzy leaves and purple, star-shaped flowers followed by yellow berries. It spreads aggressively by seed and extensive underground root systems and is commonly found in lawns, pastures, fence rows, roadsides, and disturbed soils. This is a perennial weed. Pre-emergent herbicides do not control existing perennial weeds.
Soil Temperature & Germination
Silverleaf nightshade growth increases as soils warm.
Above 65°F
Active growth begins
Above 75°F
Rapid growth and spread
Decision Question
Is the silverleaf nightshade visible above the soil right now?
Why This Weed Comes Back
Extensive underground root system
Drought tolerance and stress survival
Disturbed or unmanaged areas
Learn the Basics
A healthy, thick lawn is the best defense against weeds.
