Kangaroo Apple
NameKangaroo Apple
Scientific NameSolanum laciniatum
Common NamesKangaroo Apple, Pōpolo, Poroporo, New Zealand Nightshade
Plant FamilySolanaceae
Natural HabitatNative to coastal areas, open forests, forest margins, and disturbed sites in southeastern Australia, Tasmania, and New Zealand. It thrives in moist, well-drained soils and can tolerate full sun to partial shade.
Parts Usedleaf,fruit
Medicinal Actionsanti-inflammatory
Traditional UsesTraditionally, the ripe fruit was consumed by Indigenous Australians and Māori. The leaves and unripe fruit were used externally by Māori as a poultice for skin ailments, boils, swellings, and to treat scabies, due to their perceived anti-inflammatory properties.
Active ConstituentsSolasodine, Solamargine, Solasonine
Preparation Methodspoultice
Contraindications & WarningsAll parts of the plant, especially unripe fruit and leaves, are toxic due to steroidal glycoalkaloids. Only fully ripe, soft, orange-yellow fruit should be consumed. Ingestion of unripe fruit or leaves can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and other symptoms of poisoning. Not recommended for internal medicinal use without expert supervision due to toxicity.
Cultivation NotesEasily grown from seed or cuttings, Kangaroo Apple prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate a range of light conditions from full sun to partial shade. It is relatively drought-tolerant once established and can be pruned to maintain its desired shape and size.
Raritycommon
Description
Kangaroo Apple is a fast-growing, soft-wooded shrub native to Australia and New Zealand, typically growing up to 4 meters tall. It features deeply lobed, dark green leaves and striking purple, star-shaped flowers with prominent yellow anthers, which are followed by edible (when ripe) orange-yellow berries.
