Wild potato (Solanum jamesii)

Wild potato

Also known as: Colorado wild potato, Sego

Wild potato grows in the US southwest and was part of Puebloans’ diets. It grows in drier climates with sandy soil, where it can lie dormant for years before actually beginning to sprout. The number of white, star-like flowers that bloom on it is unpredictable, but it looks great as an ornament around a walkway.

Scientific classification

Species

Wild potato (Solanum jamesii)

Nightshades, bindweeds, gooseweeds, and allies

Instantly identify plants with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant ID, gaining quick insights on disease prevention, treatment, toxicity, care, uses, and symbolism, etc.

Download the App for Free

Toxic to Pets

Toxicity

Herb

Plant Type

Deciduous

Leaf type

0 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Wild potato

Distribution of Wild potato

Distribution Map

Wild potato is native to the temperate regions of North America. Its presence is primarily acknowledged in the southwestern parts of the continent, reflecting its adaptation to arid climates and resilience in various environmental conditions. While mainly found within its native range, wild potato does not have a significant record of being introduced to regions far beyond its original habitat, thus maintaining a relatively constrained geographical distribution.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

Discover plant distribution and habitat

Gain insights into where plants thrive and how they adapt, helping you identify, cultivate, and protect them with essential information on habitats, distribution maps, and climate trends.

Download the App for Free

Habitat

Grasslands, juniper-pinyon scrub deserts, oak thickets, mixed forests

Care Guide for Wild potato

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

0 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Wild potato, native to arid regions, requires weekly watering to keep its soil moderately moist without waterlogging. It thrives in outdoor settings, benefiting from a growing season that matches natural rainfall, effectively mimicking its natural habitat's dry and wet cycles.

Pruning: Prune wild potato in early to late spring by removing dead foliage and cutting back leggy stems to promote health and bushiness. Early spring invigorates growth, while later pruning refines shape. Regular pruning enhances air circulation, prevents disease, and improves tuber production.

Propagation: Native to the southwestern United States, wild potato thrives in arid conditions. Propagation requires stratification of seeds to enhance germination. Sow in well-draining soil, covering lightly for light exposure. Once established, wild potato produces tubers that can be harvested and replanted for further propagation.

Get tips and tricks for your plants.

Keep your plants happy and healthy with our guide to watering, lighting, feeding and more.

Download the App for Free

Learn More About Wild potato