Solanum seaforthianum, Brazilian Nightshade, St. Vincent Lilac

Growth habit: This plant grows as a vine or creeper. It likes to climb or spread out, so it does well on trellises, fences, or along the ground. It can also be grown in a container with a support structure, making it suitable for patios or small spaces.

Growing conditions: This plant can be grown outdoors in the suitable USDA zone. It is well-suited for small backyards, pots, or indoor spaces with enough light.

Watering: This plant does best with moderate to regular watering. Water it regularly, but let the top layer dry slightly between waterings.

Sun exposure: This plant prefers semi-shade. It grows well in places that get filtered sunlight or partial sun during the day.

USDA Zone: Zone 9-11. The USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map categorizes North America into zones based on average annual minimum winter temperatures, each differing by 10 °F. This map serves as a basic guide for selecting appropriate plants for a region. However, it's not definitive; plant varieties vary in cold tolerance, and young plants typically need more protection. Additionally, local microclimates, like sheltered areas or sunny spots, can influence plant health and survivability beyond the general zone recommendation.

Hardiness: Protect from freezing. Plant hardiness indicates the coldest temperature a mature plant can endure briefly while staying healthy. This rating is a guideline and can vary among varieties of the same species. Young plants often need more cold protection. Additionally, a plant's survival can be enhanced by the microclimate of its location, which may provide shelter from wind or extra warmth, allowing it to thrive beyond its typical hardiness range.

Flower color: This plant produces blue, lavender, or purple flowers during its blooming season.

Butterfly attractor: This plant attracts butterflies and hummingbirds, making it a great choice for pollinator-friendly gardens.

Irritance: This plant contains sap that can be irritating to the skin and mucous membranes for some people. While the plant is generally safe to handle, it's important to exercise caution, especially when pruning or repotting, as breaking the plant can release this sap. Wearing gloves and protective eyewear during these activities can help minimize any potential discomfort. Ensure that children and pets are kept away from this plant, as ingesting or coming into contact with the sap could cause irritation. However, there's no need for alarm - this plants can be safely enjoyed in your garden or home with these simple precautions.

Select a planting spot that fits the plant sun and moisture needs. Loosen the soil and mix in compost or organic matter to improve poor soil. Dig a hole just slightly larger than the root ball and avoid planting deeper than it was before. For better drainage, the top of the root ball can sit slightly above the surrounding soil. Provide temporary shade at first if conditions are hot or sunny. Water regularly and monitor soil moisture until the plant is well rooted. nAdd mulch around the base to keep the soil moist and reduce weeds. Shape the mulch to form a shallow basin for water, but keep mulch away from the stem.

Use a container with drainage holes and a well-draining potting mix. Position the plant so that the top of the root ball is level with the surface of the soil - avoid planting too deep. A slow-release fertilizer can be mixed into the soil at planting time to support healthy growth. Place the plant in a location that matches its light needs, and water according to its care requirements. Be careful not to overwater, and ensure good airflow around the plant to reduce the risk of pests and disease.