Garden Huckleberry (Solanum scabrum): Edible Berry for Jams and Pies

Botanical Profile

Family: Solanaceae (so-lan-AY-see-ee)
Genus: Solanum (so-LAN-num)
Species: scabrum (SKAY-brum)
Synonyms: Solanum melanocerasum, Solanum intrusum, Solanum nigrum guineense

Description

Garden huckleberry (also called African nightshade) is a fast-growing annual reaching 2–3 feet tall. The leaves are ovate, toothed, and dark green. Small, white, star-shaped flowers appear in clusters, followed by glossy, black berries about ¼ inch diameter. The berries are borne in umbels and ripen in late summer to fall.

Cultivation

Sow seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before last frost or direct sow after frost. Full sun, fertile, well-drained soil. Space 18–24 inches apart. Stake if needed. Harvest berries when fully black and slightly soft. Important: Only eat fully ripe berries; unripe berries and other plant parts contain solanine and are toxic.

Culinary Uses

Ripe berries are bland raw but develop a rich, blueberry-like flavor when cooked with sugar. Excellent for jams, jellies, pies, syrups, and wine. A traditional crop in parts of Africa and the African diaspora. High in antioxidants.

Notes

Not related to true huckleberries (Vaccinium spp.). Do not confuse with deadly nightshade (Atropa belladonna). Always verify identity and ripeness before consuming.