Giant devil’s-fig (Solanum chrysotrichum, Linnaea 19: 304 (1846))

Family: Solanaceae

Author: Schltdl.

Bibliography: Linnaea 19: 304 (1846)

Year: 1846

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Solanum

Vegetable: Unknown

Observations: Mexico to C. America

Description

The Giant devil’s-fig, scientifically known as Solanum chrysotrichum, is an intriguing and notable member of the Solanaceae family. The plant was first documented by Schltdl. in the publication Linnaea, in its 19th volume on page 304, which dates back to the year 1846.

This species is indigenous to the regions spanning from Mexico to Central America, where it thrives in its native environment. The Giant devil’s-fig is distinguished by its robust presence and striking appearance, characteristics that make it stand out among its botanical peers.

As with many plants in the Solanaceae family, Solanum chrysotrichum exhibits leaves and fruit that are typical of this diverse group. However, it is particularly noted for its significant size and the distinctiveness of its foliage and berries, which contribute to its common name.

Growing in the diverse climates of Central America and Mexico, the Giant devil’s-fig has adapted well to its surroundings and plays a role in the local ecosystems. It is both fascinating for botanists studying plant species in these areas and for horticultural enthusiasts interested in the vast variety of the Solanaceae family.

In summary, Solanum chrysotrichum, or Giant devil’s-fig, is an important and visually compelling plant that captures the interest of those who study flora in Mexico and Central America. Its documented history dating back to the mid-19th century underscores its role in the botanical history and diversity of the region.

Common Names

Spa: berenjena espinosa
Deu: goldhaar-nachtschatten
Eng: nightshade, giant devil’s-fig
En: Giant devil’s-fig, Nightshade
De: Goldhaar-Nachtschatten
Es: Berenjena espinosa

Synonyms

• Solanum warzcewiczoides (C.Huber)
• Solanum truncatum (Standl. & C.V.Morton)
• Solanum warszewiczii (Lambertye)
• Solanum scorpioideum (Rusby)
• Solanum pynaertii (De Wild.)

Distribution

• Costa Rica (native)
• Guatemala (native)
• Honduras (native)
• Mexico Central (native)
• Mexico Gulf (native)
• Mexico Northeast (native)
• Mexico Southeast (native)
• Mexico Southwest (native)
• Nicaragua (native)
• Panamá (native)
• Azores (introduced)
• Canary Is. (introduced)
• China Southeast (introduced)
• Malawi (introduced)
• Peru (introduced)
• Rwanda (introduced)
• Taiwan (introduced)
• Zambia (introduced)
• Zaïre (introduced)
• Zimbabwe (introduced)

Additional Images

Fruit

Taken Jun 12, 2015 by Nelson Zamora Villalobos (cc-by-nc)

Taken Jun 12, 2015 by Nelson Zamora Villalobos (cc-by-nc)

Taken Jun 12, 2015 by Nelson Zamora Villalobos (cc-by-nc)

Leaf

Taken Jun 12, 2015 by Nelson Zamora Villalobos (cc-by-nc)

Taken Oct 1, 2022 by Brett Wagstaff (cc-by-sa)

Taken Oct 2, 2022 by Brett Wagstaff (cc-by-sa)

Taken Oct 21, 2021 by Maria Riaikkenen (cc-by-sa)

Taken Sep 21, 2020 by mkhanyisi mkhanyisi centane (cc-by-sa)

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Other

Taken Jun 12, 2015 by Nelson Zamora Villalobos (cc-by-nc)

Flower

Taken Jul 25, 2022 by Anatas (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 25, 2022 by Anatas (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 25, 2022 by Anatas (cc-by-sa)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2929617)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:818704-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Solanum chrysotrichum Schltdl.)

Specifications

Growth