Bittersweet Nightshade — (c) Douglas Goldman, some rights reserved (CC BY-SA), uploaded by Douglas Goldman
Photo by (c) Douglas Goldman, some rights reserved (CC BY-SA), uploaded by Douglas GoldmaniNaturalistCC BY-SA
Pet safety reference

Bittersweet Nightshade

Solanum dulcamara

Climbing Nightshade is a perennial vine in the nightshade family known for its star-shaped purple flowers and bright red berries. It contains solanine alkaloids that are harmful to pets if ingested.

Bittersweet NightshadeBlue NightshadeSolanum dulcamaraTrailing Nightshade
Light
Full sun to partial shade
Habit
Vining/Climbing
Care
Low

Safety status

Cats & Dogs

Potentially toxic

Consulted references classify the plant as toxic or irritating for that pet type.

Verified against ASPCA/provenance audit 2026-05-06 on May 6, 2026.

If a pet has chewed or swallowed plant material and is showing symptoms, contact a veterinarian or poison resource immediately. This product is for structured reference, not diagnosis.

Catsconcern notes

Common signs

Drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and in severe cases, tremors or cardiac arrhythmias.

Escalation note

Ingestion of any part of the plant, especially the berries, can be dangerous. Please contact your veterinarian or an animal poison control center immediately if you suspect ingestion.

Dogsconcern notes

Common signs

Gastrointestinal upset including vomiting and diarrhea, hypersalivation, weakness, and potential neurological signs like dilated pupils or tremors.

Escalation note

The plant contains toxic alkaloids that affect the nervous and digestive systems. Seek veterinary care promptly if your dog has consumed this plant.

Safer alternatives

No hand-picked alternatives for this plant yet. You can still pick your own using the Compare button on any other plant.

Source evidence

ASPCA Toxic Plant List

toxicology · 99% reliability

Open source

Bittersweet Nightshade contains solanine alkaloids which are toxic to dogs and cats.

NC State Extension Plant Toolbox

botanical · 94% reliability

Open source

Solanum dulcamara is a perennial vine that is considered toxic to humans and animals due to the presence of solanine.

cats safety pageMy cat ate Bittersweet Nightshadedogs safety pageMy dog ate Bittersweet Nightshade

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