Nicandra physalodes
apple of Peru
A hardy annual with many, branched, erect, dark coloured stems to 1.2m and toothed, ovate green leaves to 10cm long, rather thin in texture. Short stalks produce short-lived, solitary pale blue or white flowers, opening in the middle of the day from June to October. Round, green-brown fruits are encased in green or black calcyes, similar to Chinese Lanterns, and can be dried for winter decorations
Size
Ultimate height
1–1.5 metresTime to ultimate height
1 yearUltimate spread
0.5–1 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Purple | Green | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Purple | Blue Purple | Green | |
| Autumn | Purple | Blue Purple | Green | Brown Green Black |
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H5Botanical details
- Family
- Solanaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Bushy
- Genus
Nicandra is a monotypic genus in the potato family, Solanaceae
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Peru
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in fertile, moist but well-drained soil in full sun or light shade. Flowers are short-lived but the fruit is encased in ornamental lantern-like calyces and can be dried for winter decorations. See shoo fly plant for further information.
Propagation
Propagate by seed at 15°C (59°F) in early spring or in situ in mid-spring; self-seeds freely.
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Coastal
- Cottage and informal garden
- Mediterranean climate plants
- Wildflower meadow
- Cut flowers
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
No pruning required, remove seedheads before they open if self-seeding is a nuisance
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
Generally disease-free
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