Famous for the humble potato (Solanum tuberosum) in its myriad forms, this genus includes some 1,400 species of often tuberous-rooted herbs, vines, shrubs, and trees that have a cosmopolitan distribution, with many from tropical America. The trees and shrubs may be evegreen or deciduous and many are armed with thorns. They are a variable lot but their flowers are all remarkably similar, being simple, small, 5-petalled structures carried singly or in clusters with a central cone of yellow stamens. Fleshy berries follow the flowers and are often the most brightly colored part of the plant. Some species have spherical fruit, while others have elongated fruit shaped like chilies. The berries are usually somewhat poisonous and, because of their conspicuous color, may be attractive to children.
CULTIVATION
These plants vary in hardiness, though few are really frost tolerant and most are quite tender. They are generally easily grown in any well-aerated well-drained soil. Most species prefer sun or partial shade. Propagate from seed or cuttings, or in a few cases by division.
Top Tip
The climing Solanum species can be trained to grow over atall trees, pergolas, and eaves, or against a sunny wall.
CULTIVATION
These plants vary in hardiness, though few are really frost tolerant and most are quite tender. They are generally easily grown in any well-aerated well-drained soil. Most species prefer sun or partial shade. Propagate from seed or cuttings, or in a few cases by division.
Top Tip
The climing Solanum species can be trained to grow over atall trees, pergolas, and eaves, or against a sunny wall.
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