A fast, scrambling evergreen climber that produces near-constant clusters of starry white flowers with golden centres. A quick, soft screen for fences, though all parts are mildly toxic if eaten.
At a glance
- Plant type: Climber
- Mature size: 6 m H × 3 m W
- Aspect: full sun and part shade or morning sun
- Water: regular, moderate watering
- Frost: tender
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Potato Vine
Solanum laxum is a fast-growing climber in the Solanaceae family. It reaches around 6 m tall and 3 m wide at maturity, with evergreen and semi-deciduous foliage. White flowers appear for much of the year.
Where to grow Potato Vine
Potato Vine suits warm-temperate and subtropical climates and grows best in full sun and part shade or morning sun. It is frost tender, so protect it from hard frosts or grow it in a sheltered spot or pot.
Soil & planting
Potato Vine does best in loamy and free-draining soil. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool. For a screen, space plants about 1.8 m apart.
Watering & feeding
Potato Vine is regular, moderate watering. A feed in spring with a balanced fertiliser keeps growth strong. In its first year, water deeply once or twice a week to settle the roots in, then taper off as it establishes.
Pruning & care
Prune Potato Vine after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. It clips well, so trim two or three times a year for a formal finish. Overall it is low maintenance.
Using Potato Vine in the garden
Potato Vine earns its place for a fast screen or informal hedge, a feature or specimen planting and feeding bees and pollinators.
Companion planting & design
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair Potato Vine with other plants that enjoy the same regular, moderate watering and warm-temperate climate. Group three or five together for impact rather than dotting single plants through the garden.
Good to know
Note that it is toxic to cats and dogs, so site it away from pets that chew. All parts can be toxic if eaten, so keep it away from small children. It is thornless and easy to handle.
Buying Potato Vine
Plant Sale lists Potato Vine as potted plants and advanced specimens. Stock isn't live yet — register your interest using the panel above and we'll email you the moment it lands.