White Potato Vine, jasmine nightshade
solanum laxum
Also known as: ["Solanum jasminoides","Solanum jasminoides"]
Overview
A vigorous, twining vine with fragrant, white, star-shaped flowers and small, green berries that are toxic if ingested.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Solanales |
| Family: | Solanaceae |
| Genus: | Solanum |
| Botanical Name: | Solanum laxum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: indoor pot or sheltered garden bed
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days in dry climates
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogged roots.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done as needed throughout the growing season.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the oldest stems to rejuvenate growth.
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 sun to prevent scorching; place in a spot with filtered light if outdoors; indoors, place near an east or west-facing window.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply to encourage root growth; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, fertile potting mix
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 65–80°F (18–27°C); can tolerate brief dips to 50°F (10°C) but thrives in warmer conditions.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; keep away from air conditioning vents; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
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 in spring or early summer.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting with at least two nodes.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and humid.
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 with perlite or sand; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to speed up root development.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 3–6 weeks; new growth may appear in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic bags or propagator, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective pruning of long or leggy stems; pinch back tips to encourage branching.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased stems.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors, disinfectant spray.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead or crossing branches; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., 2 inches wider in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and vigor.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; trim roots if necessary; use fresh soil mix.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring even moisture reaches the root zone; water until it drains from the bottom; avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, wilting, or stunted growth in cold; leaf drop or scorched foliage in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf drop, and may lead to root damage if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; cover with a frost cloth if outdoors in cold weather.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or develop brown edges; growth may slow due to excessive transpiration.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting or a pebble tray; ensure adequate watering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer correctly; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with foliage.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; reduce or stop in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are also vulnerable to the toxic compounds in Solanum laxum, particularly solanine. Ingestion can result in gastrointestinal irritation and neurological disturbances, which may be severe depending on the amount consumed.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicDogs are susceptible to the toxic effects of solanine and other glycoalkaloids found in Solanum laxum. Ingestion can lead to gastrointestinal upset and, in severe cases, neurological symptoms due to the disruption of normal cellular functions.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicSolanum laxum contains solanine and other glycoalkaloids, which are toxic compounds that can disrupt cellular processes, leading to gastrointestinal and neurological effects. Ingestion can cause significant physiological distress, particularly in larger quantities.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Solanum laxum toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: Does Solanum laxum require full sun?
A: It prefers partial shade to full sun, but can tolerate some shade.
Q: How often should I water Solanum laxum?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Solanaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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