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Description
Solanum Mauritianum, commonly known as giant devil’s fig or bugweed, is a fast-growing shrub that belongs to the Solanaceae family. It is native to South America, but now grows in many tropical and subtropical regions around the world. The plant can grow up to 5 meters tall and produces small white flowers that develop into yellow or orange berries. The leaves are large and have a distinctive sweet smell when crushed.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Solanales |
| Family | Solanaceae |
| Genus | Solanum |
Appearance
The Solanum Mauritianum plant has a woody stem and is covered in small thorns. The leaves are large, up to 30cm long, and have a glossy green appearance. The flowers are small and white, and the fruit is a small yellow or orange berry that is poisonous if ingested. The plant has a distinctive sweet smell when crushed, which is similar to that of vanilla.
Care Guide
The Solanum Mauritianum plant is relatively easy to care for and can be grown in a variety of conditions. The plant prefers well-drained soil and should be watered regularly, but not overwatered. Fertilization should be done every 2-3 months with a balanced fertilizer. The plant requires full sun to grow well and can tolerate temperatures down to -5 degrees Celsius. It is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Solanum Mauritianum plant is susceptible to a few pests and diseases, including spider mites, whiteflies, and leaf spot. Spider mites and whiteflies can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Leaf spot can be prevented by avoiding overhead watering and providing good air circulation around the plant.
Habitat
The Solanum Mauritianum plant is native to South America, but is now found in many tropical and subtropical regions around the world. It grows in a variety of habitats, including forest edges, wastelands, and disturbed areas. The plant is considered invasive in some regions and can quickly overtake native vegetation.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Solanum Mauritianum poisonous?
A: Yes, the plant contains solanine, which is poisonous if ingested.
Q: Can Solanum Mauritianum be grown indoors?
A: No, the plant requires full sun to grow well and cannot be grown indoors.
Q: How often should Solanum Mauritianum be fertilized?
A: Fertilization should be done every 2-3 months with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: What are the hardiness zones for Solanum Mauritianum?
A: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Related Plants
- Solanum nigrum
- Solanum lycopersicum
- Solanum tuberosum
- Solanum dulcamara
References
- “Solanum mauritianum Scop.”, Plants of the World Online, Kew Science.
- “Solanum mauritianum”, Missouri Botanical Garden.
- “Solanum mauritianum (giant devil’s fig)”, CABI Invasive Species Compendium.
