About
This hardy annual with many, branched, erect, dark indigo blue to black stems to 1.2m and toothed, ovate green leaves to 10cm long, rather thin texture. Short stalks produce short-lived, solitary pale blue flowers with a white throat, 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 shade, 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, Mediterranean climate plants, Cottage and informal garden, Wildflower meadow
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 and advice on how to control
PruningNo pruning required; ideal for dried flower arranging
PropagationPropagate by seed at 15°C (59°F) in early spring or in situ in mid-spring; self-seeds freely and has the potential to become a nuisance if left unchecked
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free