Growth analysis and shade experiment with Solanum nigrum L., the black nightshade, a leaf and fruit vegetable in West Java.

Abstract

The cultivation of S. nigrum was studied in West Java. Growth analysis showed that individual plant weight reached 1070 g 113 days after planting. When fruits and leaves were harvested the total yield was 580 g berries/plant (16.5 t/ha) and 28 g leaves/plant (0.8 t/ha). Picking the leaves influenced plant shape, relative growth rate and net assimilation rate. Shading caused a decline in total plant weight and changes in the distribution of biomass; the production of fruits was strongly affected, whereas the production of edible leaves was not affected by 35-60% shade and only moderately affected by 75-85% shade. Leaves from plants grown in shade were larger and thinner than those from plants in full light. There was no indication that the berries were toxic. (Abstract retrieved from CAB Abstracts by CABI’s permission)