10 Seeds Nicandra physalodes Apple of Peru Shoo Fly Plant Annual Flower Ornamental Garden

Nicandra physalodes, commonly called Apple of Peru or Shoo Fly Plant, is a vigorous annual known for its distinctive bell-shaped pale blue-violet flowers and decorative lantern-like seed pods. It grows quickly into a bushy, well-branched plant that adds bold architectural interest to beds, borders, and cottage-style gardens throughout the season.

The flowers give way to papery, inflated calyxes that persist and are prized for dried arrangements and autumn displays. This fast-growing annual performs best in full sun and average, well-drained soil, reaching its full size within a single season. It can self-sow readily where conditions suit it. Start seeds indoors before the last frost or direct sow after the soil has warmed.
Species: Nicandra physalodes
Type: Annual
Plant_Habit: Upright, bushy, well-branched
Sun: Full sun to partial shade
Soil: Average, well-drained
Days_to_Harvest: Not applicable
Zones: Grown as an annual in all zones
Germination: 14 to 21 days at 65 to 75F
Sowing: Surface sow, lightly press into soil; light aids germination
Spacing: 18 to 24 inches apart
Notes: Flowers give way to decorative lantern-shaped seed pods