How to grow kangaroo apple
Overview
Kangaroo apple (Solanum laciniatum) is a fast-growing, short-lived shrub native to southeastern Australia. It is grown for its bold, deeply lobed foliage, purple star-shaped flowers, and large orange-red berries that provide habitat for birds. This plant thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, and is often used as a filler or backdrop in native and ornamental gardens.
Varieties
- Solanum laciniatum — The typical species form, with deeply lobed leaves and orange berries, widely available in Australian nurseries.
Soil Preparation
Kangaroo apple prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6.0–7.0) with good drainage. If planting in heavy clay, amend with gypsum and compost to improve structure. A sandy loam enriched with organic matter is ideal. Avoid alkaline soils; if needed, add sulfur to lower pH.
Growing Guide
Plant kangaroo apple in a position with full sun and well-drained soil; avoid heavy clay or waterlogged sites. Space plants 1–1.5 m apart to allow for their bushy, 2 m spread. Dig a hole twice the width of the pot, backfill with native soil, and water in well. Apply a light mulch of wood chips or gravel to keep roots cool and suppress weeds. In cooler zones, plant after the last frost in spring; in subtropical areas, plant in autumn to avoid summer heat stress. Water regularly until established, then reduce to weekly deep soaks.
Sowing
Sow seeds in spring or autumn at 5 mm depth in seed-raising mix. Keep moist and warm (20–25°C); germination takes 14–21 days. Direct sow or transplant seedlings when 10 cm tall. Space 1 m apart. Seeds benefit from a 24-hour soak in warm water before sowing.
Care
Feed with a balanced native fertiliser (low phosphorus) in early spring and again after flowering. Prune lightly after fruiting to shape and remove spent stems; avoid cutting into old wood as regrowth is poor. Remove any dead or diseased wood in winter. Mulch annually with organic matter to maintain soil health.
Companion Planting
Pair kangaroo apple with other fast-growing natives like Correa alba, Hardenbergia violacea, or Grevillea 'Superb' for a layered habitat garden. Avoid planting near heavy feeders like citrus or vegetables, as the berry drop can attract unwanted pests. It also works well as a screen with Acacia cognata or Banksia spinulosa.
Common Pests & Risks
Aphids cluster on new growth in spring; blast off with water or apply a dilute neem oil spray. Caterpillars, especially from the native moth, may chew leaves; hand-pick or use Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) if severe. Powdery mildew can appear in humid, crowded conditions; improve air flow by spacing plants and pruning out dense stems.
Harvesting
Do not harvest for food unless expert guidance is used.
Troubleshooting
Yellow leaves: overwatering or poor drainage; reduce water and check soil. Brown leaf edges: windburn or salt spray; move to a sheltered spot or shield with a windbreak. Stunted growth: lack of sun or poor soil; ensure full sun and feed with native fertiliser. Leaf drop: sudden cold snap; protect with frost cloth in temperate zones. Berries not forming: lack of pollinators; plant nearby flowering natives like Grevillea to attract bees.