About
A hardy annual with many, branched, erect, dark coloured stems to 1.2m and toothed, ovate green leaves to 10cm long, rather thin texture. Short stalks produce short-lived, solitary pale blue or white flowers, opening in the middle of the day from June to October. Round, green-brown fruits are encased in green or black calcyes, similar to Chinese Lanterns, and can be dried for winter decorations.
About the genus
Nicandra is a monotypic genus in the potato family, Solanaceae
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing, East-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeAnnual Biennial
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height1-1.5 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height1 year
Suggested usesCoastal, Cottage and informal garden, Mediterranean climate plants, Wildflower meadow
Native toPeru
Care notes
CultivationGrow in fertile, moist but well-drained soil in full sun or light shade. Flowers are short-lived but the fruit is encased in ornamental lantern-like calyces and can be dried for winter decorations. See shoo fly plant for further information.
PruningNo pruning required, remove seedheads before they open if self-seeding is a nuisance
PropagationPropagate by seed at 15°C (59°F) in early spring or in situ in mid-spring; self-seeds freely.
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free