Solanum laciniatum aka Kangaroo Apple
Taxonomy
Solanum laciniatum, also known as kangaroo apple, is a soft-wooded shrub native to the east coast of Australia, particularly Victoria and Tasmania. It can also be found in Western Australia and New Zealand, although some consider it to be introduced in those regions. This large evergreen shrub can reach heights of 3 meters or more and has lance-shaped or pinnately lobed leaves that resemble a kangaroo paw print. Its light purplish-blue flowers, about 5cm wide, have broadly triangular petals. After flowering, the plant produces egg-shaped light orange fruits. S. laciniatum is cultivated for the production of corticosteroid drugs. However, it should be noted that this species is considered invasive in South Australia and Western Australia. Additionally, the plant's toxic fruits should be handled with caution.
Common names
Kangaroo Apple, Large Flower Kangaroo Apple, Large Kangaroo AppleHow to care for Kangaroo Apple
Difficulty
Kangaroo Apple presents a moderate level of care, which allows plant enthusiasts with some experience to expand their skills and knowledge.
Water
Kangaroo Apple should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Soil
Kangaroo Apple loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.
Lighting
Kangaroo Apple thrives in bright and direct sunlight. To ensure your plant receives enough light to survive, place it less than one foot from a window. The current weather in your area may affect the placement in your home. For example, if you live in a region that has longer and more intense periods of sunlight, then you may want to place the plant farther away from the window to avoid direct sunlight and reduce the risk of sunburn. Alternatively, if you live in a region with relatively milder temperatures and less intense sunlight, then you may be able to place the plant closer to the window for increased exposure. Ultimately, the current weather in your area should be taken into consideration when determining the best placement for your Large Kangaroo Apple.
Dormancy
During the wintertime, it's common for Kangaroo Apple to go dormant and their growth may slow down, so waterings should be spaced out more.
Toxicity
No verified data on the toxicity of this plant exists within Ploi's records. Should you, someone in your family, or your pet ingest plant material with an unknown toxicity level, it is recommended to seek medical advice.
Humidity
The Kangaroo Apple does not demand additional humidity levels. Water is mostly absorbed by the roots of plants, rather than their leaves, and the best way to provide humidity to your plants is through watering the soil.
Region of origin
Kangaroo Apple’s native range is Worldwide.
More info:
Wikipedia
More Species in Solanum Genus
Solanum bonariense Potato
Solanum tuberosum Potato
Solanum betaceum Tamarillo
Solanum furcatum Forked Nightshade
Solanum curtilobum
