Overview
Hyoscyamus niger is a plant with a herbaceous perennial habit in the genus Hyoscyamus, part of the Solanaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Hyoscyamus niger grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include border, cottage garden and herbaceous border.
About
Hyoscyamus niger is an herbaceous perennial in the nightshade family that flowers from July to September. It has deciduous foliage and suits a full-sun position in a neutral, well-drained loam. Plant in a south-facing, sheltered spot where its summer bloom period can be seen from the border or cottage-garden paths. The species carries a UK hardiness rating of H5, meaning it is classed as hardy in most gardens.
About the genus
Hyoscyamus — known as the henbanes — is a genus of flowering plants in the nightshade family, Solanaceae. It comprises 31 species, all of which are toxic.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Hyoscyamus
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Loam
- Soil pH
- Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H5
Plant details
Hyoscyamus niger size, habit and characteristics
- Habit
- Herbaceous perennial
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Suggested uses
- Border, Cottage garden, Herbaceous border
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Hyoscyamus niger
- Propagation
- Seed, Division
- Pest resistance
- Susceptible to aphids
- Disease resistance
- Susceptible to powdery mildew
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Hyoscyamus niger?
Hyoscyamus niger prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Hyoscyamus niger need?
Hyoscyamus niger grows best in loam soil. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.
Is Hyoscyamus niger hardy in the UK?
Hyoscyamus niger has an RHS hardiness rating of H5, meaning it is hardy in most of the UK, tolerating -15 to -10°C.
How do I propagate Hyoscyamus niger?
Seed, Division.
