Solanum nelsonii, a member of the nightshade family (Solanaceae), is a sprawling or trailing shrub which grows up to 1.0 m (3.3 ft) tall, forming clumps up to 1.5 m (4.9 ft) in diameter. Young stems and leaves are densely pubescent (hairy) and do not have spines. Leaves are grayish green, have entire margins (edges continuous, not notched), are arranged alternately along the stems, and are broadly ovate. Flowers are perfect (have both male and female organs) and have a white tubular corolla that is tinged with lavender to pale purple. Round berries are usually black when mature with numerous seeds.