Nicandra physalodes
apple of Peru [2]
N. physalodes has many, branched, erect, dark coloured stems to 1.2m, with toothed, ovate green leaves to 10cm long, rather thin in texture, and solitary flowers borne on short stalks from the axils of the leaves. The flowers are pale blue-mauve with a white throat, 5-lobed, 2.5-4cm across, opening in the middle of the day. The calyces are tinged and veined with dark purple, expanding after flowering to encase the small brown fruits in ridged, papery globes
Size
Ultimate height
1–1.5 metresTime to ultimate height
1 yearUltimate spread
0.5–1 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Purple | Green | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Purple | Blue Purple | Green | |
| Autumn | Purple | Blue Purple | Green | Brown Green |
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H5Botanical details
- Family
- Solanaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Bushy
- Genus
Nicandra is a monotypic genus in the potato family, Solanaceae
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Peru
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in fertile, moist but well-drained soil in full sun or light shade. Flowers are short-lived but the fruit is encased in ornamental lantern-like calyces
Propagation
Propagate by seed at 15°C (59°F) in early spring or in situ in mid-spring; self-seeds freely
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Coastal
- Mediterranean climate plants
- Cottage and informal garden
- Wildflower meadow
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
No pruning required; ideal for dried flower arranging
Pests
Generally trouble free
Diseases
Generally trouble free
Get involved
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