botanica

Specie botaniche

Common Name
Solanum jasminoides 'Album’
Scientific Name
Solanum jasminoides 'Album’
Family
Solanaceae
Origin and Distribution

Solanum jasminoides is native to South America, particularly Brazil. The variety 'Album' is cultivated as an ornamental plant in many parts of the world with temperate and subtropical climates.

Description

Solanum jasminoides is a perennial evergreen climbing plant that can reach a height of 2-4 meters, often supported by structures such as trellises or pergolas. It has thin, flexible stems that can be either upright or trailing. The leaves are ovate or lanceolate, dark green in color, and arranged alternately along the branches.

Flowers and Fruits

Flowering occurs from spring to autumn. The flowers are white, star-shaped, with a diameter of about 2-3 cm, grouped in terminal inflorescences. They are slightly fragrant and resemble jasmine flowers. The fruits are small black berries, but this variety is mainly grown for its ornamental flowers.

Habitat

Solanum jasminoides 'Album' prefers well-drained, fertile soils with good exposure to sunlight or partial shade. It thrives in temperate and subtropical climates and can tolerate brief periods of light frost, but it is best grown in sheltered positions or greenhouses in colder regions. Regular watering is required during the growing season, but it can tolerate short dry spells.

Special Notes

Solanum jasminoides 'Album' is valued for its ability to quickly cover fences, walls, and pergolas, creating a decorative effect with its dark green foliage and white flowers. It is an easy plant to grow and requires minimal care, making it suitable for beginner gardeners. However, it is important to note that all parts of the plant are toxic if ingested, so caution is necessary around children and pets. It is often used in Mediterranean gardens, cottage gardens, and as a container plant on terraces and balconies.