Nicandra physalodes 'Violacea'

RHS Plant Profile
apple of Peru 'Violacea'
Annual Biennial

A hardy annual with many, branched, erect, dark indigo blue to black stems to 1.2m and toothed, ovate green leaves to 10cm long, rather thin in texture. Short stalks produce short-lived, solitary pale blue flowers with a white throat, opening in the middle of the day from June to October. Round, green-brown fruits are encased in green or black calcyes, similar to Chinese Lanterns, and can be dried for winter decorations

Position

Full shade, Partial shade

Soil Types

Chalk, Loam, Sand

Max Height

1-1.5 metres

Max Spread

0.5-1 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
1 year
Max Spread
0.5-1 metres
Max Height
1-1.5 metres

Growing Conditions

Chalk Loam Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained or Well–drained
pH
Acid or Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full shade Partial shade
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H5

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Solanaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Bushy
Genus
Nicandra is a monotypic genus in the potato family, Solanaceae
Name Status
Unresolved

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 and can be dried for winter decorations. See shoo fly plant for further information and advice on how to control

Propagation

Propagate by seed at 15°C (59°F) in early spring or in situ in mid-spring; self-seeds freely and has the potential to become a nuisance if left unchecked

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 pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free