Mullein Nightshade

(Solanum erianthum)

Mullein Nightshade (Solanum erianthum)

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Climate Requirements

Precipitation 23" - 95"
High Temp. 82°F - 97°F
Low Temp. 47°F - 66°F

Summary

Solanum erianthum, commonly known as Mullein Nightshade or Potato Tree, is an evergreen shrub or small tree native to a range of habitats including tropical forests, forest edges, and clearings in Mexico, Central America, the Caribbean, Florida, and South America. It typically grows to a height of 6-26 feet (2-8 meters) with a flat-topped crown. The plant features large, simple, ovate leaves that are 5-15 inches long, and it produces clusters of showy, fragrant white flowers with prominent yellow stamens throughout the year, followed by yellow berries that attract birds and other wildlife.

Mullein Nightshade is valued for its ornamental flowers and its ability to thrive in a variety of conditions, making it suitable for tropical and subtropical gardens. It is often used for hedging, screening, and as a specimen plant. This species prefers full sun to part shade, and while it tolerates a range of soil types, it grows best in well-drained soils. It can become drought-tolerant once established. Gardeners should be aware that all parts of the plant are toxic if ingested, and it can become weedy or invasive in some regions, so it is important to check local regulations before planting.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Shrub, Tree
  • Height: 8-20 feet
  • Width: 6-10 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: White
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter
  • Leaf Retention: Semi-deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Drainage: Fast, Medium

Common Uses

Border Plant

Natural Habitat

Native to tropical forests, forest edges, and clearings in Central America, the Caribbean, and northern South America

Other Names

Common Names: Potato Tree, Velvet Nightshade, China Flowerleaf, Turkey Berry, Wild Tobacco, Big Eggplant, Mullein Nightshade, Flannelbush

Scientific Names: Solanum erianthum, Solanum adulterinum, Solanum adulterinum, Solanum amblycalycinum, Solanum amblycalyx, Solanum corymbosum, Solanum erianthum var. adulterinum, Solanum eriocalyx, Solanum mauritianum, Solanum pubescens

GBIF Accepted Name: Solanum erianthum