Found inland from the coastal areas from mid New south Wales through to the South Australian Victorian border Solanum laciniatum is commonly called the Kangaroo Apple.
It can be used a fast growing temporary screening plant and is said to have a number of commercial uses.
All parts of the plant are poisonous, although the ripe fruit, when it becomes soft, and orange to red and naturally fall from the plant, is said to be edible if cooked.
We do not recommend eating this plant as it can be poisenous.
Care
This is plant that requires full sum and some moisture to thrive. It copes well with a range of soil conditions. And has been used to help prevent erosion.
As plants age they generally deteriorate in condition and will die back. This is caused by the plant becoming to heavy for its stem, and the stem splitting.Regular pruning can help alleviate this problem.
Propagation
East from seed sown into heated propagation tray.
Summary Information
Botanical Name – Solanum laciniatum
Common Names – Kangaroo-apple
Position – Full Sun.
Soil – Well drained and moist.
Height – To around 1-2 metres.
Spread – To around 1 metre.
Flowers – Mauve.
Flowering Time – Winter to Spring.
Foliage – Mid green lance shaped.
Frost tolerant – Yes
Drought tolerant – No.