My half hardy perennial can kick your perennials ass. And this spiky creature is a damned fine plant. Large lobed leaves are fiercely armed with bright orange spikes down the midrib. Violent orange spikes also cover every stem and virtually glow when backlit. All summer long this large tender plant (to 3′ x 2′) bears large solanaceous 5 petalled purple flowers with a central orange beak. The overall effect is beyond charming, its a fierce plant with attitude and we adore it. Great in containers but mind that this sucker does have a bite, locate away from traffic. Very fun to grow in the ground as well. Hardy to the low 20’s and sometimes makes it through a mild winter. Orange fruits follow the flowers but are not assured. One of the amazing plants native to Madagascar. Full sun and rich soil with regular water. Basically grow it just like a tomato. Highly deer resistant.
Solanum pyracanthum
Family: Solanaceae Genus: Solanum
Plant type: Annual/Biennial
Biomes/Growing conditions: Deer Resistance, Hot Aspects, Low Water/No Water, Oregon Coast
USDA Hardiness zone: Zn9a 25º to 20ºF
Foliage color: Bronze/Orange, Mid Green
Foliage season: Winter Deciduous