Introduction

Solanum crispum "Glasnevin" (Chilean Potato Tree) is a deciduous climber in the Solanaceae family, reaching 5 metres with purple-blue flowers in summer. Hardy in USDA zones 8-10.

Solanum crispum "Glasnevin", commonly known as Chilean Potato Tree, is a semi_evergreen deciduous climber in the Solanaceae family. The plant reaches 5 metres in height with a spread of approximately 3 metres, climbing by means of a scrambling habit, using long arching stems that hook onto supports. The purple-blue flowers appear in summer, providing seasonal colour. The foliage is green, turning colour or dropping in autumn. Growth rate is fast-growing, capable of adding 1-2 metres of new growth per season. Native to Chile, this species has become a valued ornamental plant in temperate and subtropical gardens worldwide.

Botanical Description

Classification: Solanaceae > Solanum > crispum. The Solanaceae is the botanical family containing the genus Solanum. This species is native to Chile and was introduced to European gardens from Chile. The genus Solanum contains several species, many of which are valued in horticulture for their climbing habit and ornamental qualities.

Climbing Mechanism

Solanum crispum "Glasnevin" has a scrambling growth habit, producing long, vigorous stems that lean against and push through neighboring plants and structures. Unlike true climbers, it lacks specialized climbing organs and must be tied to supports for vertical training. The stems may have small thorns or a rough texture that helps them grip loosely. Regular tying-in is essential to maintain the desired form. Can reach 5 metres when supported.

Group Climbing Guide — Tropical Vine

Various — tendrils, twining, or scrambling. Most need sturdy warm-wall support. Protect from wind.

Planting Guide

Step 1 — Site Selection: Choose a position in full sun (6+ hours direct sunlight daily) with well-drained soil. Consider the mature size (5m tall × 3m wide) when selecting the site. Step 2 — Support Installation: Install a wall (with or without wire supports) or solid vertical surface before planting. Ensure the support is rated for the mature weight of the plant. Step 3 — Soil Preparation: Dig a hole twice the width and 1.5 times the depth of the rootball. Mix in well-rotted compost and a slow-release fertilizer. Target pH 6.0-7.0. Step 4 — Planting: Plant at the same depth as the container (except clematis, which should be planted deeper). Water thoroughly and firm in gently. Step 5 — Aftercare: Mulch with 5-8 cm of organic matter. Water regularly during the first growing season. Guide initial stems toward the support using soft ties. Protect from slugs and snails in the early stages.

Climate & Hardiness

Spring: Apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer as new growth begins. Mulch around the base with organic matter. Tie in new stems to supports. Check for winter damage and prune out any dead or damaged growth. Summer: Water regularly , especially during dry spells. Feed monthly with a liquid fertilizer during the growing season. Continue training and tying in new growth. Deadhead if applicable. Autumn: Reduce watering and feeding as growth slows. Apply a thick mulch to protect roots from winter cold. In colder zones, consider wrapping the crown with fleece or straw. Winter: Protect from severe frost with horticultural fleece if temperatures drop below -10°C. Check ties and supports. Plan any structural pruning for late winter.

Overwintering Guide

Most need minimum 5–10°C. Move containers inside. Protect wall-grown with fleece. Accept dieback in borderline areas.

Propagation

Stem cuttings (primary method): Take semi-ripe cuttings in mid to late summer (July-August). Select healthy, current season's growth, cutting just below a leaf node. Cuttings should be 10-15 cm long. Remove lower leaves, dip the cut end in hormone rooting powder, and insert into a well-drained mix of perlite and peat (50:50). Place in a propagator or cover with a clear plastic bag. Bottom heat of 18-21°C improves success rates. Roots typically develop within 4-8 weeks. Success rate: 60-80%. Layering (alternative): In spring, select a low-growing flexible stem. Wound the underside lightly, pin it to the ground with a wire staple, and cover with soil. Keep moist. Roots develop over 6-12 months. Sever from the parent plant and transplant the following season. Success rate: 80-90%.

Pests & Diseases

Common Problems

Group Disease & Pest Reference (Tropical Vine)

• Mealybugs — white waxy clusters in leaf axils; use methylated spirit or biological control
• Scale insects — hard brown bumps on stems; scrape off, treat with neem oil
• Red spider mite — common under glass; increase humidity, introduce predatory mites
• Fungal rots — in cold damp conditions; improve ventilation, reduce watering in cool weather
• Whitefly — in conservatories; use yellow sticky traps, introduce Encarsia wasps

Training & Pruning

Pruning timing: Prune late winter. Formative pruning: In the first 2-3 years, focus on building a strong framework of main stems by selecting well-placed shoots and tying them to the support. Remove weak, crossing, or badly-placed stems. Maintenance pruning: Once established, shorten side shoots after flowering to maintain shape and encourage new flowering wood. Remove any dead or damaged growth promptly. Thin overcrowded stems to maintain good air circulation. Training: Tie in new growth regularly throughout the growing season using soft garden twine or plant clips. Spread stems evenly across the support for the best coverage and flowering display. Check ties annually and replace any that are too tight.

Pruning Guide — Tropical Vine

Prune after flowering to control size. Remove dead wood in spring. Thin congested growth for air circulation.

Support Structures

Best support types for Solanum crispum "Glasnevin": Primary recommendation: A wall (with or without wire supports) or solid vertical surface, sized to accommodate the mature height of 5m and spread of 3m. Wire systems: Horizontal galvanized wires at 30-45 cm intervals, tensioned between vine eyes or posts. Ideal for walls and fences. Trellis panels: Choose panels with openings suited to the climbing method — any style, as stems will lean and hook rather than grip. Installation tips: Mount supports at least 5 cm from the wall for air circulation. Use stainless steel or galvanized fittings to prevent rust. Ensure all fixings are rated for the mature weight of the plant, especially in exposed positions.

Support Guide — Tropical Vine

Warm wall with wires, conservatory framework, sturdy trellis. Wind protection essential.

Wildlife Value

Solanum crispum "Glasnevin" is a valuable pollinator plant, attracting bees, butterflies, and hover flies to the garden. The open flowers provide easy access to nectar and pollen. Ecosystem services: The climbing habit creates valuable vertical habitat, providing shelter and nesting opportunities for birds and invertebrates. Dense foliage offers roosting sites for birds and overwintering habitat for beneficial insects.

Landscape Design

Walls and fences: Solanum crispum "Glasnevin" is well-suited to covering walls and fences when provided with suitable support structures. Pergolas and arbors: Excellent choice for pergolas, creating a dramatic overhead canopy. Screening: Creates seasonal screening (summer privacy) when grown on appropriate support. Effective for disguising unsightly structures, dividing garden rooms, or creating private spaces. Feature plant: Makes a stunning focal point when grown on a prominent support structure. Combine with other climbers for a layered, naturalistic effect.

History & Culture

Solanum crispum "Glasnevin" has been cultivated in gardens since its introduction from Chile. Originally from Chile, it has become valued in horticulture for its ornamental qualities. The genus Solanum has contributed significantly to the diversity of climbing plants available to gardeners, with species found across multiple continents and climate zones.

Container Growing

Solanum crispum "Glasnevin" is not recommended for container growing due to its vigorous root system and large mature size (5m). The plant requires open ground to develop a sufficiently large root system for healthy growth and flowering. If space is limited, consider a more compact cultivar or alternative species better suited to container culture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Seasonal Care Calendar