Apple of Peru
Nicandra physalodes
Apple of Peru is a half hardy perennial/hardy annual that’s usually grown as an annual in USDA zones 3 through 8. It can reach 5 feet (1.5 m.) in height by the end of the summer, and blooms for two to three months during the summer. It produces light purple to blue flowers that grow in a bell shape.
This foliage adds so much depth, texture and dimension to any arrangement.Apple Of Peru has proven to be a wonderful and fantastic filler. The leaves are attractive if used for greenery.
Details:
Life Cycle:Hardy annual
Site: Full Sun/ Partial sun
Height: 36-48”
Days to maturity: 90-100 daysSeed Depth:1/4"
Plant spacing: 12”
Approx seeds per packet: 50
How to Grow:
Growing nicandra plants is easy. Start your seeds indoors about seven to eight weeks before the last frost, then transplant them outside once the temps in your area are warm enough to do so.Or sow them in fall where winters are mild. They like soil that drains well but will thrive in various types otherwise.
Harvest:
Cut a few stalks from the main stem of the Apple Of Peru plant.
Then strip the leaves off the stem, carefully preserving the little green or purple lanterns.
By removing the leaves, the lanterns are more visible.
Vase Life:
With a propre care and handling up to 7 days