Contents
Description
Lycianthes Rantonnetii, commonly known as Blue Potato Bush, is a tropical evergreen shrub belonging to the Solanaceae family. Native to South America, this plant is popular for its beautiful blue flowers that bloom throughout the year. It can grow up to 6-8 feet tall and 4-6 feet wide, making it an excellent choice for gardeners who want to add some color to their landscape. The plant has a moderate growth rate and can be pruned to maintain its shape and size.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Solanales |
| Family | Solanaceae |
| Genus | Lycianthes |
Appearance
The Blue Potato Bush has ovate, glossy leaves that are 4-6 inches long and 2-4 inches wide. The plant produces beautiful blue, trumpet-shaped flowers that are about 2 inches long and 1 inch wide. The flowers bloom in clusters and are borne on terminal or axillary racemes. The fruit produced by this plant is a small, round, green berry that turns purple-black when ripe. The berries are not edible and may be toxic if ingested.
Care Guide
Blue Potato Bush is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips to keep your plant healthy:
Water
The plant prefers well-drained soil and regular watering. During hot and dry weather, water the plant deeply once a week. Avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season (spring and summer). Reduce fertilization during fall and winter when the plant is dormant.
Soil
The plant prefers well-drained, slightly acidic soil. If the soil is too alkaline, add some sulfur to adjust the pH level.
Sunlight
The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. In areas with hot and dry weather, plant the Blue Potato Bush in a location that receives some shade during the hottest part of the day.
Hardiness Zones
The Blue Potato Bush is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Blue Potato Bush is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, it may be susceptible to spider mites, whiteflies, and aphids. To control pests, use insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant may also be susceptible to root rot if overwatered.
Habitat
The Blue Potato Bush is native to South America, specifically Brazil, Argentina, and Paraguay. It grows in tropical and subtropical regions and prefers a warm, humid climate. It can be grown in containers or in the ground and is suitable for use as a hedge or specimen plant.
Question and Answer
1. What is the scientific name of the Blue Potato Bush?
Answer: The scientific name of the Blue Potato Bush is Lycianthes Rantonnetii.
2. Is the fruit of the Blue Potato Bush edible?
Answer: No, the fruit produced by this plant is not edible and may be toxic if ingested.
3. Does the Blue Potato Bush require full sun?
Answer: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. In areas with hot and dry weather, plant the Blue Potato Bush in a location that receives some shade during the hottest part of the day.
4. What is the hardiness zone for the Blue Potato Bush?
Answer: The Blue Potato Bush is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Related Plants
- Lycianthes biflora
- Lycianthes synanthera
- Lycianthes grandiflora
- Lycianthes ramosissima
References
- “Lycianthes rantonnetii (Blue Potato Bush).” University of Florida Gardening Solutions. Accessed September 15, 2021. https://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/plants/ornamentals/blue-potato-bush.html
- “Lycianthes Rantonnetii.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 15, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=d535
- “Lycianthes Rantonnetii: Blue Potato Bush.” Plant Care Today. Accessed September 15, 2021. https://plantcaretoday.com/lycianthes-rantonnetii.html
