Solanum laciniatum

Large Kangaroo-apple

Open erect woody shrub, often with purplish stems.

Additional information

• FamilySolanaceae
• StoreyMiddle storey
• Size1-3 m x 1-3 m
• Plant groupingShrubs 1.5-10 m
• LeavesDark green leaves lobed or entire; lobed leaves broadly egg-shaped 9-38 cm long, with deep lobes 2-13 cm x 3-20 mm; entire leaves lance-shaped 5-20 cm x 10-40 mm.
• Flower colourDeep blue to purple
• Flowering timeSeptember to March
• FlowersAxillary clusters of up to 10 flat flowers to 50 mm across, flower lobes notched. Egg-shaped, edible yellow to orange berry, green and poisonous when immature.
• Bird attractingFruit
• Butterfly attractingNo
• Frog habitatNo
• Growing conditionsMoist well drained often rocky soils in open and riparian forests. Tolerates moderate frosts. Prefers semi shade. Important pioneer plant.
• Garden useFast growing short-lived plant with well displayed flowers and attractive fruit.
• Commercially availableIndigenous nursery
• Conservation statusLocally common within its preferred growing conditions
• Aboriginal Use Food - berries when ripe, poisonous when green
• Related speciesSimilar to Solanum aviculare which has red-orange berries and pointed flower lobes.

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