Organic Peruvian Apple 'Shoo Fly' (Nicandra physalodes) from the seed company Gaia, an ornamental and repellent plant in the garden
Native to South America , the Peruvian Apple 'Shoo Fly' is an annual plant with dark green foliage and finely toothed leaves . Its bell-shaped flowers, a bright lavender blue , attract the eye throughout the summer. Known for its natural repellent effect against whiteflies and certain pests , it is often planted around vegetable gardens . Its rapid growth and ease of maintenance make it an ideal ally to protect other crops while bringing an aesthetic touch to the garden.
Spread : compact and bushy port
Plant height : 60 to 120 cm
Quantity per pack : ± 100 seeds
Companion plants : marigold, nasturtium, basil, borage, calendula, dill, chives, garlic, mint, sage
Enemy plants : tomatoes, potatoes, eggplants, peppers, petunias, tobacco
Did you know?
Its name 'Shoo Fly' comes from its ancient use as a natural repellent against flies and other harmful insects . Although its insect repellent properties are known, it remains an ornamental plant to be handled with care , because all its parts are toxic if ingested .
Cultivation method
Sow indoors 4 to 6 weeks before the last frost , maintaining a temperature between 70 and 85°F (21 and 29°C) . Transplant seedlings into the ground once all risk of frost has passed , spacing them 12 inches ( 30 cm) apart. Peruvian Apple prefers well-drained soil and a sunny location for abundant flowering .
Harvesting and storage
Harvest the stems once the lantern-shaped pods are well formed. Cut them early in the morning after the dew has evaporated to maximize their shelf life .
Storage : Place cut stems in water immediately after harvest . For dried arrangements , hang them upside down in a dark, dry, well-ventilated place. Store them out of direct light to preserve their color .
With its beautiful flowers , unique appearance and natural benefits for the garden, the Peruvian Apple 'Shoo Fly' is as useful as it is decorative !
