Nicandra physalodes

Shoo-fly plant

Location

The Autumn Border.

Description:

The shoo-fly plant is an annual grown from seed to add interest to borders. However, as occasional seedlings may appear in the garden it is sometimes thought of as a weed. It is a member of the Solanaceae or potato family native to South America growing to H 1.2m x S 1m (4' x 3'). It has bell-shaped short-lived, opening for only a few hours each day, flowers that are most commonly pale blue and white, but there are also forms with violet or white flowers, appearing June to October, followed by cherry-like, green-brown berries.

Site and Care:

Often found on bare, waste and un-cultivated ground it will grow on any type of soil with little, if any care or attention. Propagation is by seed.