Nicandra

Nicandra
Scientific classification
Kingdom:	Plantae
(unranked):	Angiosperms
(unranked):	Eudicots
(unranked):	Asterids
Order:	Solanales
Family:	Solanaceae
Genus:	Nicandra Schreb.
Species:	N. physalodes
Binomial name
Nicandra physalodes (L.) Gaertn.

Nicandra is a monotypic genus of flowering plants in the nightshade family containing the single species Nicandra physalodes. It is known by the common names Apple of Peru and shoo-fly plant. It is native to Peru, and it is known elsewhere as an introduced species and sometimes a weed. It is also kept as an ornamental plant.

Plants grow to 1 metre tall and are vigorous with spreading branches and ovate, mid-green, toothed and waved leaves. The flowers are bell-shaped and 5 centimeters or more across, pale violet with white throats. The flower becomes lantern-like towards the end of its bloom. The plant is thought to have insect repellent properties.

The genus is named for Greek poet Nicander, who wrote about plants.

External links

• Media related to Nicandra physalodes at Wikimedia Commons
• USDA Plants Profile
• GRIN Species Profile
• Photo gallery