Chilean potato tree (Solanum crispum)
Care, watering, light and tips for Chilean potato tree on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Solanaceae
- Difficulty: Moderate care
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Full sun
- Temperature: 10–35 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Chilean potato tree
Solanum crispum, commonly known as 'Chilean nightshade' or 'Potato tree', is an evergreen climbing shrub native to Chile, valued for its attractive violet flowers with yellow centers that bloom from late spring to autumn. Its flexible, semi-woody stems can reach several meters in height, making it an excellent choice for covering pergolas, walls, or fences, adding an exotic touch of color and a profusion of blooms. It is ideal for Mediterranean or coastal gardens, where its resistance to salt and wind is an advantage.
Native range
Chile and Peru
Care tips
It requires full sun exposure for abundant flowering, although it tolerates some partial shade in very hot climates. Watering should be regular during the growing season, keeping the substrate moist but not waterlogged, and reducing it in winter. It prefers well-drained, fertile, and slightly acidic to neutral soils; good support is essential for its climbing growth. A common mistake is not pruning it after flowering, which can result in straggly growth and reduced blooming the following year.
How to save a dying Chilean potato tree
- Warning signs
- Yellowing or browning leaves, wilting, premature flower or fruit drop. Plant looks limp and lacks vigor.
- First aid
- Check watering, ensure good drainage. Protect from intense direct sun if potted.
- What kills it
- Overwatering (root rot) or extreme underwatering, and lack of support for climbing when young.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes! It's quite resilient. With proper care, it recovers. Prune damaged parts.