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Description
Solanum Nudum, also known as the Naked-fruited Nightshade, is a species of flowering plant in the Solanaceae family. It is native to tropical America and can be found in various countries such as Mexico, Brazil, and Bolivia. This plant is a shrub or small tree that can grow up to 6 meters tall. It has large leaves that are ovate or elliptical in shape and can grow up to 30 centimeters long. Solanum Nudum produces small, white or pale blue flowers that bloom in clusters. The fruit of this plant is a berry that is green when unripe and turns yellow or orange when mature. This plant is known for its medicinal properties and is used to treat various ailments in traditional medicine.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Solanales |
| Family | Solanaceae |
| Genus | Solanum |
| Species | Solanum Nudum |
Appearance
Solanum Nudum is a shrub or small tree that can grow up to 6 meters tall. It has large leaves that are ovate or elliptical in shape and can grow up to 30 centimeters long. The leaves are dark green on the upper surface and lighter green on the lower surface. The plant produces small, white or pale blue flowers that bloom in clusters. The fruit of this plant is a berry that is green when unripe and turns yellow or orange when mature. The berries are small and contain numerous seeds.
Care Guide
Solanum Nudum is a relatively easy plant to care for. Here are some tips:
- Water: This plant prefers moist but well-drained soil. Water regularly, but do not overwater.
- Fertilization: Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
- Soil: This plant prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. Use a soil mix that contains peat moss or compost.
- Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Solanum Nudum is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Solanum Nudum is susceptible to a few pests and diseases:
- Spider Mites: These pests can cause yellowing of the leaves and webbing on the plant.
- Aphids: These pests can cause curling of the leaves and stunted growth.
- Leaf Spot: This fungal disease can cause brown or black spots on the leaves.
Habitat
Solanum Nudum is native to tropical America and can be found in various countries such as Mexico, Brazil, and Bolivia. It grows in a variety of habitats such as forests, savannas, and disturbed areas. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Solanum Nudum poisonous?
A: Yes, all parts of Solanum Nudum are poisonous if ingested.
Q: Can Solanum Nudum be grown in a container?
A: Yes, Solanum Nudum can be grown in a container as long as it is large enough to accommodate the plant’s size.
Q: Does Solanum Nudum attract wildlife?
A: Yes, Solanum Nudum can attract birds and butterflies.
Q: What is the best time to prune Solanum Nudum?
A: The best time to prune Solanum Nudum is in the late winter or early spring before new growth appears.
Related Plants
- Solanum Lycopersicum (Tomato)
- Solanum Melongena (Eggplant)
- Solanum Tuberosum (Potato)
References
- “Solanum Nudum.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c866.
- “Solanum Nudum.” Plants of the World Online, www.plantsoftheworldonline.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:809049-1.
- “Solanum Nudum.” Tropicos, www.tropicos.org/name/29600181?tab=synonyms.
