Solanum crispum
potato tree
A vigorous, semi-evergreen, scrambling climber with downy stems to 6m long. Ovate leaves are variable in size but usually 6-12cm long. Flowers, borne in large clusters from summer into autumn, are slightly fragrant, 2.5-3cm in diameter and a rich purple-blue with bright yellow anthers closely-packed at the centre of each flower. Small cream berries follow the flowers in autumn
Size
Ultimate height
4–8 metresTime to ultimate height
5–10 yearsUltimate spread
1.5–2.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Blue Purple | Green | ||
| Autumn | Blue Purple | Green | Cream | |
| Winter | Green |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
ShelteredDrought resistance
Yes Hardiness
H4Botanical details
- Family
- Solanaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Semi evergreen
- Habit
- Climbing
- Genus
Solanum can be annuals, perennials, evergreen or deciduous shrubs or twining climbers, with simple or pinnnately lobed leaves and star- or bowl-shaped, 5-lobed flowers with prominent stamens, followed by fleshy fruits
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Chile
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow under glass in peat-free, loam-based compost in full light, sheltered from hot sun, or bright indirect light. Grow outdoors in moist but well-drained fertile soil in neutral to slightly alkaline soil in full sun. Support plants and tie in regularly
Propagation
Propagate by semi-hardwood cuttings
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- City and courtyard gardens
- Cottage and informal garden
- Low Maintenance
- Wall side borders
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
Pruning group 12 after flowering
Pests
May be susceptible to aphids and glasshouse red spider mite
Diseases
May be susceptible to honey fungus (rarely), tomato spotted wilt and grey moulds
Get involved
The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.