Contents
Description
Solanum Dimidiatum, commonly known as the Half-clasping Nightshade or the Rough Nightshade, is a perennial shrub that belongs to the Solanaceae family. It is native to South Africa and can grow up to 1.5 meters in height. The plant is characterized by its woody stems and rough, hairy leaves. It produces small white or purple flowers that bloom in clusters during the summer months. The fruits of Solanum Dimidiatum are small, round, and green, turning yellow when ripe.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Solanales |
| Family | Solanaceae |
| Genus | Solanum |
Appearance
Solanum Dimidiatum has rough, hairy leaves that are green in color and elliptical in shape. The leaves are arranged alternately on the stems and are about 5-10 cm long. The plant produces small flowers that are white or purple in color and bloom in clusters during the summer months. The flowers have a five-lobed corolla and a yellow center. The fruits of Solanum Dimidiatum are small, round, and green, turning yellow when ripe.
Care Guide
Solanum Dimidiatum requires moderate watering and well-draining soil to thrive. It should be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. The plant prefers full sun to partial shade and can grow in hardiness zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Solanum Dimidiatum is susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and leaf spot. It is also prone to aphid infestations. To prevent these issues, it is important to keep the plant well-watered and to prune any infected parts. In severe cases, a fungicide or insecticide may be necessary.
Habitat
Solanum Dimidiatum is native to South Africa and can be found in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, savannas, and forest edges. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate moderate drought.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Solanum Dimidiatum toxic?
A: Yes, Solanum Dimidiatum is toxic to humans and animals if ingested.
Q: Can Solanum Dimidiatum be grown in a container?
A: Yes, Solanum Dimidiatum can be grown in a container as long as it is provided with adequate drainage and soil.
Q: When should Solanum Dimidiatum be pruned?
A: Solanum Dimidiatum can be pruned in late winter or early spring before new growth appears.
Q: How often should Solanum Dimidiatum be fertilized?
A: Solanum Dimidiatum should be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Related Plants
- Solanum jasminoides
- Solanum lycopersicum
- Solanum melongena
- Solanum nigrum
- Solanum tuberosum
References
- “Solanum Dimidiatum.” PlantZAfrica.com, www.plantzafrica.com/plantqrs/solanumdimid.htm.
- “Solanum Dimidiatum.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=286306&isprofile=1.
- “Solanum Dimidiatum.” Natural Resources Conservation Service, plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=SODI.
