Water
Water regularly, allowing the top 2-3 cm of soil to dry out between waterings. Reduce watering in winter to prevent waterlogging and root rot.
Ensure good drainage to avoid standing water, which is detrimental to this plant's health.
Also known as Big Eggplant · China Flowerleaf · Flannelbush
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Potatotree (Solanum erianthum) is a fast-growing shrub or small tree native to tropical America, valued for its ornamental foliage and medicinal uses.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
High
75% intensity
Prefers full sun to partial shade.
Moderate
50% intensity
Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings; reduce in winter.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers average room temperatures (18-24°C). Protect from frost.
Low
25% intensity
Feed monthly during growing season with diluted balanced fertilizer.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 3/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 3/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
All parts toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water regularly, allowing the top 2-3 cm of soil to dry out between waterings. Reduce watering in winter to prevent waterlogging and root rot.
Ensure good drainage to avoid standing water, which is detrimental to this plant's health.
Prune in late winter or early spring to remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches. Pinch back new growth to encourage bushier development and to maintain a desired shape.
Heavy pruning can be done to rejuvenate older plants.
Propagate from seeds sown in spring or from semi-hardwood cuttings taken in summer. Seeds require warmth and consistent moisture for germination.
Cuttings should be rooted in a well-draining medium under humid conditions.
Repot young plants annually in spring. Mature plants can be repotted every 2-3 years or when root-bound. Use a well-draining potting mix.
Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one to avoid overwatering issues.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Potatotree (Solanum erianthum)
Where Potatotree (Solanum erianthum) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Solanales |
| Family | Solanaceae |
| Genus | Solanum |
| Species | Solanum erianthum |
Similar in genus Solanum
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
