Apple-of-peru - Nicandra physalodes (Care, Characteristics, Invasive, Images)

Apple-of-peru

Also known as: Chinese lantern

Apple-of-peru (Nicandra physalodes) is a flowering plant that’s a member of the nightshade family. Another name for it is shoo-fly plant. It was called this because years ago, juices from the leaves and roots were mixed with milk in a dish. This attracted flies who drank the blend. Since it was poisonous, the flies died. This species is native to South America.

Scientific classification

Species

Apple-of-peru (Nicandra physalodes)

Nightshades, bindweeds, gooseweeds, and allies

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Annual

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Summer, Fall

Bloom Time

Summer, Fall

Harvest Time

1 m

Plant Height

30 cm to 40 cm

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

5 cm

Flower Size

Brown

Fruit Color

White, Purple, Blue

Flower Color

Semi-evergreen

Leaf type

Images of Apple-of-peru

Distribution of Apple-of-peru

Distribution Map

Nicandra physalodes, known as apple-of-peru, has a native range concentrated in South America, particularly in the Andean region. Beyond its native habitat, apple-of-peru has been introduced across various continents including Africa, Asia, Europe, and North America. While cultivated in certain areas, apple-of-peru is sometimes thought to be invasive in parts of Africa, where it may have an impact on local ecosystems. Despite this, apple-of-peru is not typically seen as a high-threat invasive species globally. The extent of its cultivation is broad, indicating it is well-established outside of its native range.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Bare or sparsely grassy places, cultivated ground, waste places, rubbish tips

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Toxicity

Apple-of-peru is moderately toxic to humans, cats, and dogs. All parts, especially seeds, contain tropane alkaloids (atropine, hyoscine, scopolamine, hyoscyamine). Symptoms include dilated pupils, dry mouth, elevated heart rate, hallucinations (humans), and distress (cats), vomiting, diarrhea (dogs). Immediate medical or veterinary attention is crucial in case of suspected ingestion.

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Quickly Identify Apple-of-peru

Single day-lasting blue blossom distinguishes apple-of-peru from other plants.

Distinctive dry and inflated calyx on 1-2 inch (2.5-5 cm) fruit of apple-of-peru.

Alternate leaves up to 8 inches (20 cm) long with sparse pubescent texture.

Axillary and nodding flowers with short bell shape, measuring 0.75-1 inch (2-2.5 cm) across.

Pale blue petals with delicate white center on apple-of-peru flowers, blooming in late summer to early fall.

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Care Guide for Apple-of-peru

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Apple-of-peru, native to temperate South America, thrives in moderately moist soil. It requires weekly watering and tolerates brief dry spells. Preferring full sun, apple-of-peru benefits from mulching to retain moisture and reduce watering frequency.

Fertilize: Apple-of-peru benefits from balanced nutrition fertilizers with high nitrogen during vegetative growth. Apply balanced fertilizer monthly and high nitrogen every 6-8 weeks. Avoid root burn by following label rates, and adjust in cooler months. Incorporate fertilizer gently into soil for optimal absorption.

Pruning: Apple-of-peru features striking purple-blue flowers and lantern-like seed pods. Prune in early to late spring to remove dead stems, enhance air circulation, control size, and encourage prolific flowering. Use clean, sharp tools for best results, promoting healthy and attractive growth.

Propagation: Apple-of-peru, from the Solanaceae family, is propagated by sowing seeds in well-draining soil. Seeds need a light covering for optimal light exposure during germination. Regular watering is crucial, but overwatering must be avoided. Thinning seedlings allows adequate space for growth.

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