Chenille Plant
solanum crispum
Also known as: ["Chenille Plant","Fox Tail Plant"]
Overview
A flowering plant known for its unique, fuzzy, red flower spikes that resemble a fox's tail.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Solanales |
| Family: | Solanaceae |
| Genus: | Solanum |
| Botanical Name: | Solanum crispum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: trellis or support structure in a garden or conservatory
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–10"}
- 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.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter/early spring; light pruning as needed year-round.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light or partial sun (4–6 hours/day); tolerates full sun with adequate water.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light, protect from harsh midday sun, adjust placement based on season.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderateeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains for filtered light; avoid direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry between waterings, avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-draining, fertile garden soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates mild frost but thrives in moderate warmth.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from frost; maintain moderate warmth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Reduce feeding in winter; apply fertilizer after watering; flush soil occasionally to prevent buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in spring/summer.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings, remove lower leaves, dip in hormone, plant in medium, keep moist.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is active.
Environment
High humidity, indirect light, warm (65–75°F/18–24°C) environment.
Medium
Well-draining mix like perlite and peat moss.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 2–4 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic bag; keep out of direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut back stems to a leaf node or bud, thin out crowded areas, shape as desired.
Pruning Plan
Regular pruning to control size, encourage bushiness, and remove dead/diseased growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp knife, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools, prune during dormancy, remove dead/diseased parts, shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Move to a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter.
Method
Use fresh well-draining soil, trim rootbound roots, ensure drainage holes are clear.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and vigor.
Checklist
Prepare new pot, trim roots if needed, use fresh soil, water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensure even saturation, allow excess water to drain, water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
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 compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves (cold), wilting or leaf drop (heat), stunted growth.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop or dieback in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer spot, insulate pots, avoid cold drafts, protect from frost.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; growth may slow in extreme heat.
Solution: Provide shade, increase humidity, water more frequently, ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer, apply during active growth, avoid winter feeding, flush periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid winter feeding.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are highly sensitive to the toxic compounds in Solanum crispum, which can cause severe gastrointestinal and neurological effects. The glycoalkaloids disrupt normal physiological functions, leading to distress and potential systemic complications.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Solanum crispum can lead to gastrointestinal upset and neurological symptoms due to the presence of solanine and related compounds. These toxins affect the nervous system and can cause significant distress.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicSolanum crispum contains solanine and other glycoalkaloids, which can disrupt cellular processes and cause gastrointestinal and neurological disturbances upon ingestion. The toxic compounds interfere with acetylcholine synthesis and can lead to systemic effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Solanum crispum toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water Solanum crispum?
A: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 7-10 days.
Q: Does Solanum crispum require full sun?
A: It thrives in bright, indirect light but can tolerate some direct sunlight.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Solanaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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