Solanum crispum Glasnevin (Chilean Potato Bush)
Reliable and fast-growing, Solanum crispum ‘Glasnevin’ (Chilean Potato Bush) is a large semi-evergreen climbing shrub that is smothered from summer to fall in large clusters of fragrant, rich purple-blue, starry flowers. Each flower has attractive contrasting, prominent yellow stamens.
Reliable and fast-growing, Solanum crispum 'Glasnevin' (Chilean Potato Bush) is a large semi-evergreen climbing shrub that is smothered from summer to fall in large clusters of fragrant, rich purple-blue, starry flowers. Each flower has attractive contrasting, prominent yellow stamens. They give way to small, inedible, pale yellow fruits. The foliage of finely-pointed, ovate, dark green leaves will remain on the plant in mild winter areas. 'Glasnevin' is hardier than the species and blooms more prolifically. Well-behaved, this vigorous climber makes a wonderful companion for climbing roses or clematis.
- Winner of the prestigious Award of Garden Merit of the Royal Horticultural Society for its noteworthy qualities.
- Can quickly grow up to 20 ft. tall (6 m) and 5 ft. wide (150 cm).
- Thrives in full sun, in moist, fertile, neutral to slightly alkaline, well-drained soils. This plant is very versatile and can thrive in dry, hot sites too.
- Deer resistant. Watch for aphids, tomato spotted wilt and gray molds.
- This vigorous climber is perfect for covering a sunny, sheltered wall, trellis, or fence. Excellent summer container specimen that may be easily overwintered in colder climates.
- Chip spent flowers to encourage dense growth and encourage blooming. Support plants and tie in regularly
- Prune hard in late spring before growth resumes to rejuvenate from the base. Feed with a controlled-release fertilizer in spring.
- Propagate by semi-hardwood cuttings
- Native to Chile and Peru.
- Ingestion may cause severe discomfort. Wear gloves and wash your hands after handling.
- Toxic to dogs, toxic to cats, toxic to horses.
Requirements
| Hardiness | 9 – 11 |
|---|---|
| Heat Zones | 1 – 12 |
| Climate Zones | 8, 9, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24 |
| Plant Type | Climbers, Shrubs |
| Plant Family | Solanum |
| Exposure | Full Sun |
| Season of Interest | Summer (Early,Mid,Late)Fall |
| Height | 15' – 20' (4.5m – 6m) |
| Spread | 4' – 5' (120cm – 150cm) |
| Water Needs | Average |
| Maintenance | Low |
| Soil Type | Chalk, Clay, Sand |
| Soil pH | Alkaline, Neutral |
| Soil Drainage | Moist but Well-Drained |
| Characteristics | Fragrant, Plant of Merit, Showy, Semi-Evergreen |
| Tolerance | Deer |
| Garden Uses | Arbors, Pergolas, Trellises, Beds and Borders, Patio and Containers, Wall-Side Borders, Walls and Fences |
| Garden Styles | City and Courtyard, Coastal Garden, Informal and Cottage |







