Family: Solanaceae

This genus consists of 15 shrubs and trees from tropical America, some of which have local medicinal uses. They are grown for their attractive foliage and clusters of tubular flowers which may be blue, purple, red, yellow or white. Most have a long flowering period through summer. Fruits are berries with an enlarged calyx.

Species

I. cyaneum, a spreading evergreen shrub, grows to a height of 3-4 m (10-13 ft). The leaves are shiny green above, grayish beneath. Drooping trusses of the deepest violet-blue tubular flowers are carried through summer, with spot flowering possible until winter. Fruits are rare in cultivation.

Cultivation

In climates prone to frost, grow in an intermediate greenhouse or conservatory in pots of soil-based potting compost. Plants need good light but shade from direct sun. Propagate from seed in spring germinated at 18°C (64°F), or from semi-ripe cuttings in summer, rooted with bottom heat.

Climate

Warmest parts of zone 10 and above.