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Description
Solanum Tomentosum, also known as Woolly Nightshade, is a tender perennial plant that belongs to the Solanaceae family. It is native to South America and is now commonly found in North America, Europe, and Asia. The plant can grow up to 3 feet tall and has a spread of 2 to 3 feet. It produces small, purple flowers that bloom from early summer to early fall, followed by clusters of yellow-orange, edible fruits.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Solanales |
| Family | Solanaceae |
| Genus | Solanum |
Appearance
Solanum Tomentosum has a bushy growth habit and produces leaves that are oblong to ovate in shape, with a dark green color on top and a soft, velvety texture on the underside. The leaves can grow up to 6 inches long and 3 inches wide. The plant also produces small, star-shaped flowers that are purple in color and grow in clusters at the end of the stems. The fruits are small, round, and yellow-orange in color, and have a sweet taste when ripe.
Care Guide
Water: Solanum Tomentosum prefers moist but well-draining soil. Water the plant regularly during the growing season, but avoid overwatering as this can lead to root rot.Fertilization: Fertilize Solanum Tomentosum with a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer once a month during the growing season.Soil: Solanum Tomentosum prefers moist, well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, but prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil.Sunlight: Solanum Tomentosum prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but may produce fewer flowers and fruits.Hardiness Zones: Solanum Tomentosum is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11. In colder climates, it can be grown as an annual or overwintered indoors.
Common Pests & Diseases
Solanum Tomentosum is susceptible to a number of pests and diseases, including aphids, spider mites, whiteflies, and powdery mildew. To prevent these problems, keep the plant well-watered and fertilized, and prune any damaged or diseased branches. If pests or diseases do occur, treat them with an appropriate insecticide or fungicide.
Habitat
Solanum Tomentosum is native to South America, where it can be found growing in a variety of habitats, including forests, grasslands, and disturbed areas. It has been introduced to other parts of the world and can now be found growing in gardens, parks, and other cultivated areas.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Solanum Tomentosum poisonous?
A: Yes, all parts of the plant are toxic if ingested, particularly the fruits.Q: How often should I prune my Solanum Tomentosum?
A: Prune the plant as needed to control its size and shape, and to remove any damaged or diseased branches.Q: Can Solanum Tomentosum be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Solanum Tomentosum can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.Q: How do I propagate Solanum Tomentosum?
A: Solanum Tomentosum can be propagated by seed or by taking cuttings from the plant’s stem.
Related Plants
- Solanum Jasminoides
- Solanum Rantonnetii
- Solanum Crispum
- Solanum Lycopersicum
References
- “Solanum tomentosum”. Missouri Botanical Garden. Retrieved 9 October 2021.
- “Woolly Nightshade”. Royal Horticultural Society. Retrieved 9 October 2021.
- “Solanum tomentosum”. Dave’s Garden. Retrieved 9 October 2021.
