Blue Potato Bush (Lycianthes rantonnetii): The Royal Purple Shrub

Blue potato bush, also called Paraguay nightshade or blue lycianthes, is a fast-growing, evergreen shrub with a profusion of deep purple-blue, star-shaped flowers with yellow centers, blooming nearly year-round. Native to South America, Lycianthes rantonnetii (syn. Solanum rantonnetii) has a loose, arching habit.

Cultivation and Care

Full sun to partial shade. Well-drained soil. Regular water and fertilizer for best bloom. Prune to shape—can be trained as a standard or hedge. In zones 9-11, evergreen; cooler zones, containerize. It's in the nightshade family—all parts toxic.

Uses and Cultivars

Excellent for mixed borders, containers, or as a flowering screen. The cultivar 'Royal Robe' (see ID 66312) is more compact with deeper color. Attracts butterflies.

Taxonomic Details