Solanum jasminoides Blue

The Solanum jasminoides 'Bleu', also known as False Jasmine, is a graceful climbing plant, both light and unusually generous. It forms numerous clusters of small, lightly scented, light blue star-shaped flowers that bloom from June until the first frost. It flourishes with elegant foliage that somewhat resembles jasmine, remaining evergreen in mild climates. This small vine is commonly found in gardens in the south of France, where it thrives in the heat, early spring, and endless summer. It is very accommodating, with its only weakness being limited hardiness outside mild climates. Gardeners in colder regions can easily adopt it in a large pot for winter storage.

The Solanum jasminoides, recently renamed Solanum laxum, is a climbing plant belonging to the Solanaceae family, just like the potato and Datura. It originates from tropical and subtropical regions of South America, specifically southern Brazil and Ecuador. Its growth is so rapid that once established, the plant can reach its adult size within one or two seasons. In our climates, it will typically reach an average height of 5m (16ft) with a 1m (3ft) span. Its vine-like stems coil around any support available to them and can cling to the roughness of walls. They bear evergreen to semi-evergreen foliage, depending on the severity of the winter. The leaves are single, ovate to lanceolate, measuring 3 to 6 cm (1 to 2in) in length and 2 to 3 cm (1in) in width. They are dark green and turn reddish in cold weather without being damaged by snow. The flowering period occurs from May-June until October-November, sometimes lasting up to 8 months in regions unaffected by frost. The inflorescences are small paniculate clusters that bear bright star-shaped flowers measuring 2cm (1in) in diameter. These flowers have 5 pale mauve blue petals surrounding a bright yellow stamen centre. They are slightly fragrant and give rise to small violet berries measuring 5mm (0in) in diameter, which are toxic like most Solanaceae fruits.

The 'Bleu' Solanum jasminoides is appreciated for its rapid growth and its endless pastel and light flowering, easily paired with various climbing plants: Clematis such as C.viticella purpurea 'Plena Elegans', Jasmine officinale, Passiflora caerulea, or Podranea ricasoliana will accompany it on a trellis or fence. In milder regions, it can flower almost year-round. It is necessary to train it, as otherwise it may become a large, tangled bush that is difficult to control. Note that this charming vine can become invasive in suitable climates. It is a perfect plant for coastal gardens. It is resistant to summer drought: a few generous but spaced waterings during the summer will sustain its flowering.