Nicandra physalodes – Apple of Peru, Shoofly Plant

Description

Nicandra physalodes, commonly known as the “Shoo-fly plant” or “Apple of Peru,” is a fast-growing annual plant in the nightshade family. It can reach heights of 3 to 6 feet, with large, wavy-edged leaves and light blue to purple bell-shaped flowers that have white centers. The plant is called the “Shoo-fly plant” due to its insect-repellent properties.

After the flowers fade, they develop into distinctive, inflated, papery seed pods that resemble Chinese lanterns. The pods enclose a dry fruit containing many tiny, brown, D-shaped seeds. A single plant can produce thousands of seeds, which are known for their long viability, sometimes remaining dormant in the soil for years. The plant often self-seeds prolifically. The entire plant, including the seeds, is considered toxic if ingested by humans and animals.