Gum plant, Wild tobacco, Fugu tree
solanum mauritianum
Also known as: ["Gum plant","Wild tobacco","Fugu tree"]
Overview
A large, fast-growing shrub or small tree native to South America, known for its woolly leaves and tubular flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["fast growing","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Solanales |
| Family: | Solanaceae |
| Genus: | Solanum |
| Botanical Name: | Solanum mauritianum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in a sheltered spot, or large container in a sunny area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: moderate
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, fertile soil with good organic matter content; a mix of potting soil, perlite, and compost works well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning can be done anytime; major pruning is best done in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if necessary, but avoid heavy pruning unless needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sunlight to prevent scorching; place in a spot with filtered light if outdoors; indoors, position near an east or west-facing window.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid placing directly in hot, direct sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-drained, fertile soil with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a pot with drainage holes; avoid compacted soil; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures between 65–85°F (18–29°C); can tolerate mild frosts but thrives in consistently warm conditions.
Protect from drafts; maintain consistent temperatures; avoid sudden temperature fluctuations.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid over-fertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings are the most reliable method; can also be propagated from seed.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting just below a node.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (70–75°F or 21–24°C), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix such as a mix of peat, perlite, and sand.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically develop in 3–6 weeks; new growth may appear in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic wrap or propagator, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep medium consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean, sharp tools; make cuts just above a leaf node or branch junction; remove crossing or crowded branches.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts; also prune to control size.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers (for larger branches), sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools before and after use; prune during dry weather; remove dead or diseased wood first; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring is the best time to repot, as the plant is entering its active growth phase.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (about 2 inches wider in diameter) than the current one.
Method
Remove the plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for root health and growth.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; water plant a day before repotting; handle roots carefully.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency with seasons.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves or leaf drop in cold stress; wilting or scorched leaf edges in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Growth slows or halts; leaves may turn yellow or drop; susceptible to frost damage if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move plant to a warmer location; provide a heat source if indoors; cover outdoors if frost is expected.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; growth may slow; flowers or buds may fail to develop.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity around the plant; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase before fertilizing; use diluted fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with foliage.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer); reduce or stop in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are highly susceptible to the toxic effects of solanaceous alkaloids found in Solanum mauritianum. Ingestion can result in severe gastrointestinal and neurological symptoms, requiring prompt medical intervention.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe plant's solanaceous alkaloids are toxic to dogs, causing gastrointestinal upset and potential neurological effects. Dogs are particularly sensitive to solanine, which can lead to severe poisoning if ingested in sufficient quantities.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicSolanum mauritianum contains solanaceous alkaloids, including solanine, which can induce gastrointestinal and neurological disturbances upon ingestion. These compounds interfere with acetylcholine metabolism, leading to systemic toxicity.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Solanum mauritianum toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How fast does Solanum mauritianum grow?
A: It is a fast-growing shrub or small tree.
Q: Does Solanum mauritianum attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Solanaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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