Tree and Shrub Growers of Australia awarded the 1999 Plant of the Year to Blue Solanum ‘Royal Robe’ which is also a member of the potato family. An ornamental purple flowering shrub that will combine well with today’s flower mixtures of whites and pinks in the garden.
Common name: Blue Potato Bush, Blue Solanum ‘Royal Robe’
Botanical name: Solanum rantonnetii ‘Royal Robe’
Climate: It will grow best in warm climates
Description: A potato vine with reddish purple, yellow centred flowers that grows 1.5-2m (5′-6’6″) tall. Flowers from mid-spring to late autumn. Blooms nearly all year round in mild winter areas.
‘Royal Robe’ is available from most nurseries Australia wide and costs $9.50-$12 for a 15cm (6″) pot.