Another common name for potato tree is Giant Star Potato Tree. The botanical name is Solanum macranthum and belongs to Solanaceae (Potato) family.
Potato tree is native to Brazil and grows to a height of 15 feet with a woody trunk. Many symmetrical branches give it a beautiful shape. The stems and branches have spines. It is popular as a decorative tree in gardens, parks, and streets. The leaves are dark green, velvety, deeply lobed, and prickly. The leaves can be 60 cm long and 30 cm wide.
Star-shaped flowers bloom all year round. They are showy, fragrant and bloom in three shades of blue. Flowers can be as large as 7 cm long and 9 cm wide.
The fruits are round, yellow berries with seeds.
Propagation:
Potato tree is grown with seeds and with cuttings. It is very easy to grow and maintain this tree. Plant in rich and well-draining soil. The tree needs full sun. Water regularly. Prune branches to maintain the shape of the tree.
Birds, butterflies, and insects are attracted to the Potato tree.
