Apple of Peru Nicandra physalodes

ABOUT
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
About this plant
Names
Family
Solanaceae
Synonyms
apple of Peru shoo-fly apple of Sodom Peruvian bluebell see more
Characteristics
Foliage type
Deciduous
Height
1-1.5 metres
Spread
0.5-1 metres
Hardiness zones
H5
Light
Full Sun, Partial Shade
Pruning
No pruning required; ideal for dried flower arranging
Soil
SoilChalk, Loam, Sand
Suitable locations
Hardiness zone
Flower borders and beds Coastal Mediterranean Climate Plants Cottage & Informal Garden Wildflower meadow
Propogation
Propagate by seed at 15°C (59°F) in early spring or in situ in mid-spring; self-seeds freely
Pests
Generally trouble free
Diseases
Generally trouble free