Solanum laciniatum
TAXONOMY
FamilySolanaceae
GenusSolanum
Zone9
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Solanum laciniatum, commonly known as the Kangaroo Apple, is a shrub native to Australia and New Zealand. It belongs to the Solanaceae family and the Solanum genus. This plant is known for its deeply lobed leaves and vibrant purple flowers, followed by orange-yellow berries. It is often grown for ornamental purposes and can reach up to 3 meters in height.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Kangaroo Apple
Solanum aviculare var. laciniatum
Solanum laciniatum f. australiense
Solanum laciniatum f. cultum
Solanum laciniatum f. novozelandicum
Solanum laciniatum f. tasmanicum
Solanum laciniatum f. viridicaule
Solanum pinnatifidum
Solanum pinnatifolium
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterMoist
SoilLoamy
LightDirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature20° C
Humidity60%
GDD1,800
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
DETAILS
Care Instructions
Solanum laciniatum thrives in bright, direct sunlight and prefers moderate temperatures. It should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out partially between waterings. The plant enjoys moderate humidity and can be grown both indoors and outdoors, provided it receives adequate light.Harvest
Solanum laciniatum, commonly known as the kangaroo apple, is typically harvested when the fruits are fully ripe, which is indicated by a change in color to a deep orange or yellow. Harvesting should be done carefully by hand to avoid damaging the plant and the fruits. It is important to wear gloves during harvest as the unripe fruits and other parts of the plant can be toxic. The best time to harvest is during the late summer to early autumn when the fruits have reached full maturity. Ensure that the fruits are harvested before the first frost to prevent damage.Soil
This plant prefers well-draining loamy soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. Ensure the soil has good drainage to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. A mix of garden soil with compost or organic matter works well.Fertilizer
Use a balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10. Fertilize the plant every 4-6 weeks during the growing season to promote healthy growth and flowering. Reduce feeding during the dormant period.Repotting
Repot Solanum laciniatum every 1-2 years or when it outgrows its current pot. Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one and ensure it has drainage holes. Gently remove the plant from its old pot, loosen the roots, and place it in the new pot with fresh soil.Propagation
Propagate Solanum laciniatum through seeds or cuttings. For seed propagation, sow seeds in a well-draining seed mix and keep them moist until germination. For cuttings, take a healthy stem cutting, remove the lower leaves, and place it in water or moist soil until roots develop.Pruning
Prune the plant regularly to maintain its shape and encourage bushier growth. Remove any dead or damaged branches and trim back leggy growth. Pruning is best done in the early spring before the growing season begins.Toxicity
Solanum laciniatum is toxic to pets and humans if ingested. The berries and leaves contain solanine, which can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Keep the plant out of reach of children and pets.Additional
Solanum laciniatum can be susceptible to pests such as aphids and spider mites. Regularly inspect the plant for signs of infestation and treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil if necessary. Ensure good air circulation around the plant to prevent fungal diseases.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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