Solanum Species, Bugweed, Ear-Leaf Nightshade, Tree Tobacco, Wild Tobacco Bush
Solanummauritianum

Family: Solanaceae (so-lan-AY-see-ee)
Genus: Solanum (so-LAN-num)
Species: mauritianum (maw-rih-tee-AY-num)

Synonym:Solanum auriculatum

Category
Shrubs
Tropicals and Tender Perennials

Water Requirements
Drought-tolerant; suitable for xeriscaping
Average Water Needs; Water regularly; do not overwater

Sun Exposure
Full Sun

Foliage
Evergreen

Foliage Color
Blue-Green
Burgundy/Maroon

Height
24-36 in. (60-90 cm)
36-48 in. (90-120 cm)
4-6 ft. (1.2-1.8 m)
6-8 ft. (1.8-2.4 m)
8-10 ft. (2.4-3 m)
10-12 ft. (3-3.6 m)
12-15 ft. (3.6-4.7 m)
15-20 ft. (4.7-6 m)
20-30 ft. (6-9 m)
30-40 ft. (9-12 m)

Spacing
18-24 in. (45-60 cm)

Hardiness
USDA Zone 11: above 4.5 °C (40 °F)

Where to Grow
Grow outdoors year-round in hardiness zone
Can be grown as an annual
Suitable for growing in containers

Danger
All parts of plant are poisonous if ingested
Handling plant may cause skin irritation or allergic reaction
Pollen may cause allergic reaction

Bloom Color
Blue-Violet
Lavender
White/Near White

Bloom Characteristics
This plant is attractive to bees, butterflies and/or birds

Bloom Size

Bloom Time
Blooms all year

Other details

Soil pH requirements
6.6 to 7.5 (neutral)

Patent Information
Non-patented

Propagation Methods
From seed; direct sow outdoors in fall

Seed Collecting
Ferment seeds before storing
Wear gloves to protect hands when handling seeds