Star Ipomoea
solanum seaforthianum
Also known as: ["Brazilian Jasmine","Climbing Nightshade"]
Overview
A vigorous, twining vine with attractive, dark green leaves and clusters of small, star-shaped, lavender-blue flowers followed by bright red berries.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Solanales |
| Family: | Solanaceae |
| Genus: | Solanum |
| Botanical Name: | Solanum seaforthianum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: indoor or outdoor container, or as a climbing vine in a sheltered garden
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
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 potting mix with added perlite or sand for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Every 2–3 months or as needed to maintain shape and health.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if overgrown, otherwise selective trimming.
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 new plants to sunlight gradually; protect from intense midday sun to prevent leaf scorch; adjust indoor placement to mimic natural light patterns.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid placing near west-facing windows in summer.
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 especially in low light.
Soil
well-draining, fertile soil with organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes, avoid heavy clay soils, top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but avoid prolonged exposure to extremes.
Avoid placing near drafty windows or vents; maintain stable temperatures; protect from sudden drops at night.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Always water before fertilizing to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; apply in early morning or late evening.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in water or soil.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting with at least 2 nodes, remove lower leaves, dip in rooting hormone (optional), place in medium, keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain 70–75°F (21–24°C) and high humidity.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix or water with occasional changes.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; new growth may take 1–2 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining mix, plastic bags or propagation dome.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain consistent moisture.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushiness, cut back leggy stems, remove crossing or crowded branches.
Pruning Plan
Prune to control size, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors, disinfectant (e.g., rubbing alcohol).
Checklist
Disinfect tools, prune during active growth, make clean cuts just above nodes, remove debris promptly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the main growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2–3 inches in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently, trim any circling roots, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil, water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil freshness.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot, prepare fresh soil mix, inspect roots, water after repotting, place in shade for a few days.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water thoroughly, ensure drainage, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensure water penetrates deeply to reach the root ball, allow excess water to drain completely, water in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage, incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility, use cactus or succulent mix as a base.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, leaf drop, stunted growth, or wilting due to stress from cold or heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration or drop; prolonged cold can damage roots and stems.
Solution: Move to a warmer location, insulate pots with bubble wrap, avoid drafty areas, use a space heater if necessary.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or scorch; growth may slow; flowers may drop prematurely.
Solution: Increase humidity with misting or pebble trays, provide shade during peak heat, ensure adequate watering, use shade cloth outdoors.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type, dilute correctly, apply to moist soil, avoid contact with leaves, follow seasonal schedule.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); reduce or stop in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are susceptible to toxicity from Solanum seaforthianum due to the solanine and glycoalkaloids present in the plant. Ingestion can result in severe gastrointestinal and neurological effects, posing a significant health risk.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIngestion of Solanum seaforthianum by dogs can lead to significant toxicity due to the presence of solanine and other glycoalkaloids. These compounds can cause severe gastrointestinal upset and neurological symptoms, potentially leading to systemic toxicity.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicSolanum seaforthianum contains solanine and other glycoalkaloids, which are toxic compounds that can cause gastrointestinal distress, neurological effects, and potentially severe systemic toxicity upon ingestion. The physiological impact includes disruption of cellular functions and potential organ damage.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Solanum seaforthianum toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is toxic to both dogs and cats.
Q: Does this plant require a lot of maintenance?
A: It has moderate maintenance needs, requiring regular pruning and support for climbing.
Q: What are the ideal growing conditions for Solanum seaforthianum?
A: It thrives in full sun to partial shade with well-drained soil and regular watering.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Solanaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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