Solanum Aviculare

Kangaroo Apple
Solanum Aviculare
Type: Annual in zone USDA 8
Exposure: Full Sun
Water: Regular

As you may have gathered from the common name, this plant is a native to Australia and New Zealand, where it’s an evergreen shrub that can grow to 12ft (4m). Here in Victoria, BC, it’s a vigorous annual that shoots up to 6ft (1.8m) in a single season. Big, smooth, dark green leaves that are lance-shaped and deeply cut can reach 1ft (30cm) long, and are carried on dramatic, dark (almost black) arching branches. Mid summer brings 1in (2.5cm) bluish-purple flowers with a yellow center. These are followed by non-edible fruits of the same size, which appear green and ripen to red. Kangaroo Apple can be used as a striking addition to mixed borders, or as a large container plant.

Caution: All parts of this are poisonous if ingested. Please don’t eat it.

Cheers,

John