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. Plant into well-prepared ground, firm the soil around the roots and water deeply to settle it in. For a screen, space plants about 1.8 m apart.
Watering & feeding
Potato Vine does best with regular, moderate watering. Feed as new growth begins, following the rate on a balanced garden fertiliser. Check moisture below the mulch during establishment and water thoroughly when needed rather than following a rigid schedule.
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. For most gardens, 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
Potato Vine sits most comfortably beside plants adapted to regular, moderate watering and warm-temperate climate. A small cluster gives stronger visual impact than isolated plants scattered 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. Use the quote builder above to ask about current stock, sizes and pricing.
