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