About
Perennial of branching stems with compound leaves, white flowers and green berries that forms swollen, waxy, edible tubers harvested in summer. Second early potato with pale yellow skin, firm flesh and fantastic flavour. Good eelworm resistance.
About the genus
Solanum can be annuals, perennials, evergreen or deciduous shrubs or twining climbers, with simple or pinnnately lobed leaves and star- or bowl-shaped, 5-lobed flowers with prominent stamens, followed by fleshy fruits
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH3
Plant details
Plant typeAnnual Biennial
HabitClump forming
FoliageDeciduous, Semi evergreen
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height1 year
Suggested usesPatio and container plants
ToxicityHarmful if eaten, except potato crop. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. Pets (dogs): Harmful if eaten, except potato crop - for further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants
Care notes
CultivationWill grow well in a prepared and well manured bed not previously used to grow potatoes for the last two years. Avoid waterlogged ground. Begin planting early spring and earth up as the plant grows, tubers push up towards the surface and can become green and toxic if exposed to sunlight. Also grows well in deep 8-10 ltr planters placing tubers 12 inches deep from the top.
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate from tubers known as 'seed potatoes' which are sprouted or 'chitted' prior to planting. Tubers can be chitted from January and planted between March and May, when the risk of frost has passed.
Pest resistanceGood eelworm resistance. May be susceptible to potato slug, wireworm, aphids.
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to honey fungus (rarely) and potato blight