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Description:
Solanum Candidum, commonly known as White-Flowered Nightshade, is a perennial plant species that belongs to the Solanaceae family. It is native to the Mediterranean region, including North Africa, southern Europe, and western Asia. The plant can reach up to 1.5 meters in height and has a spreading habit. Solanum Candidum has a white flower with yellow stamens that bloom from May to October. The fruit produced by the plant is a round, green berry that turns yellow when ripe.
Taxonomic Information:
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Solanales |
| Family | Solanaceae |
| Genus | Solanum |
Appearance:
Solanum Candidum is an attractive plant with a unique appearance. Its leaves are dark green, ovate, and slightly hairy. The stem is woody, branching, and covered with fine hairs. The flowers are white, star-shaped, and have a yellow center. They bloom in clusters and are attractive to bees and other pollinators. The fruit produced by the plant is a round, green berry that turns yellow when ripe.
Care Guide:
Solanum Candidum is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some guidelines to help you grow and maintain this plant:Water: Water the plant regularly, especially during the growing season. Ensure that the soil is moist but not waterlogged.Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can grow in a variety of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils.Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but may not flower as well.Hardiness Zones: Solanum Candidum is hardy in USDA zones 7 to 10.
Common Pests & Diseases:
Solanum Candidum is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to the following:Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the plant, causing stunted growth and yellowing of the leaves.Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves.Verticillium wilt: This fungal disease can cause wilting and yellowing of the leaves, as well as stunted growth.
Habitat:
Solanum Candidum is native to the Mediterranean region, where it grows in a variety of habitats, including open woodlands, shrublands, and rocky hillsides. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade. The plant is drought-tolerant and can survive in areas with low rainfall.
Question and Answer:
Q: Is Solanum Candidum poisonous?A: Yes, Solanum Candidum is toxic to humans and animals if ingested in large quantities. Its berries are particularly toxic and can cause gastrointestinal problems.Q: Can Solanum Candidum be grown in containers?A: Yes, Solanum Candidum can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.Q: How often should Solanum Candidum be pruned?A: Solanum Candidum does not require regular pruning. However, you can prune the plant in late winter or early spring to remove any dead or damaged branches.Q: What is the best way to propagate Solanum Candidum?A: Solanum Candidum can be propagated by seed or by taking stem cuttings in spring or summer.
Related Plants:
Here are some related plants to Solanum Candidum:- Solanum Dulcamara- Solanum Lycopersicum- Solanum Nigrum- Solanum Tuberosum
References:
– “Solanum Candidum in Flora of Pakistan @ efloras.org” efloras.org.- “Solanum Candidum – Plant Finder” www.missouribotanicalgarden.org.- “Solanum Candidum – White-Flowered Nightshade” www.pfaf.org.
