Kangaroo Apple
solanum laciniatum
Also known as: ["New Zealand Nightshade","Poisonous Nightshade"]
Overview
A deciduous shrub native to Australia and New Zealand, known for its deeply lobed leaves and purple flowers that mature into yellow berries.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","seasonal color change"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Solanales |
| Family: | Solanaceae |
| Genus: | Solanum |
| Botanical Name: | Solanum laciniatum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed or large container
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: moderate
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days in dry conditions
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand; can include some organic matter for fertility.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- 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 overgrown, but avoid heavy pruning during flowering
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 plants gradually to direct sunlight to prevent scorching; place indoors near a south-facing window with sheer curtains in summer; move outdoors to a shaded patio in spring/autumn.
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 direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.
Soil
well-draining, fertile loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix designed for succulents or cacti; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure good aeration.
Temperature
Prefers 65–75°F (18–24°C); can tolerate cooler temperatures down to 50°F (10°C) but thrives in moderate warmth.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; maintain consistent warmth for best growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Fertilize only when actively growing; avoid over-fertilizing to prevent salt buildup; flush soil occasionally to remove excess salts.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
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 moist medium.
- Keep warm and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth may appear in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity with a plastic bag or dome; keep out of direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean, sharp tools; make cuts just above a leaf node or bud; remove crossing or crowded branches.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead or diseased wood first; make clean cuts; dispose of clippings properly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (e.g., 2 inches wider in diameter) than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for younger plants to encourage growth.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage holes; use fresh soil mix; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the day to minimize fungal issues; 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 pots have drainage holes.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves or leaf drop in cold stress; wilting or scorching in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and can cause leaf drop; may enter dormancy if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move plant to a warmer location; use a space heater if necessary; avoid placing near drafty windows or doors.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; flowering and fruiting may be reduced.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with a mister or humidifier; ensure adequate watering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase before fertilizing; use diluted fertilizer; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); reduce or stop in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicSolanum laciniatum is toxic to cats due to the presence of solanine and other glycoalkaloids. These substances can cause severe gastrointestinal and neurological symptoms in felines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe glycoalkaloids in Solanum laciniatum are toxic to dogs, causing gastrointestinal upset and potential neurological effects. These compounds disrupt normal cellular functions in the animal's body.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicSolanum laciniatum contains solanine and other glycoalkaloids, which are toxic compounds that can cause gastrointestinal and neurological disturbances. These compounds interfere with cellular processes, leading to various physiological effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Solanum laciniatum edible?
A: No, all parts of the plant are toxic if ingested.
Q: How does this plant grow?
A: It thrives in full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil.
Q: Does it require pruning?
A: Light pruning can help maintain shape and encourage flowering.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Solanaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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