Blue Potato Bush
Lycianthes rantonnetii
Also known as
Paraguay Nightshade
Photo by Chammy (All rights reserved)
Full Sun
Easy care
Moderate watering
Half-hardy
10a
USDA zone
-1°C
Minimum temperature
Expected size
Height | Spread | |
|---|---|---|
3m | Max | 3m |
1.5m | Min | 1m |
2 years to reach maturity
Fruiting
-
spring
-
summer
-
autumn
-
winter
Generally not harvested.
More images of Blue Potato Bush
Blue Potato Bush Overview
The Blue Potato Bush, Lycianthes rantonnetii, is grown for its abundance of attractive flowers from early summer to autumn. Historically it was placed in the Solanum genus; however, recent analysis has reclassified it into the genus Lycianthes. It is a many-branched evergreen shrub that provides a good backdrop in large borders or focal specimen plants. A good plant for shaping into a standard - it responds well to pruning.
Common problems with Blue Potato Bush
Susceptible to aphids, red spider mite, encourage beneficial insects like ladybirds to help control pests.
How to propagate Blue Potato Bush
Cuttings
Root semi-ripe cuttings with gentle bottom heat from summer to early autumn.
Seed
Seed can be sown in spring once temperatures have warmed up.
Special features of Blue Potato Bush
Drought resistant
Can withstand extended dry periods.
Attracts useful insects
Attracts bees
Pot plant
Can be grown in large containers, keep soil moist and well drained.
