Showy Chalice Vine
NameShowy Chalice Vine
Scientific NameSolandra maxima
Common NamesShowy Chalice Vine, Cup of Gold Vine, Golden Chalice Vine, Hawaiian Lily
Plant FamilySolanaceae
Natural HabitatNative to Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean, thriving in tropical and subtropical climates. Often found in disturbed areas, forest edges, and widely cultivated as an ornamental.
Parts Usedleaf,flower
Medicinal Actionsanalgesic,sedative
Traditional UsesHistorically, some indigenous cultures have used parts of the plant, often externally as a poultice for pain, or internally in extremely minute, controlled doses for its sedative and analgesic effects, and sometimes for entheogenic purposes. Due to extreme toxicity, such uses are highly dangerous and not recommended.
Active ConstituentsTropane alkaloids (hyoscyamine, scopolamine, atropine)
Preparation Methodspoultice,tincture
Contraindications & WarningsEXTREMELY TOXIC. Contains potent tropane alkaloids that can cause severe anticholinergic poisoning, leading to hallucinations, delirium, tachycardia, respiratory depression, coma, and death. Not for internal use or self-medication under any circumstances. Avoid contact with eyes and open wounds. Interacts dangerously with other anticholinergic drugs.
Cultivation NotesA vigorous, fast-growing vine that requires strong support for climbing. Prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil in tropical or subtropical climates. Can be pruned to control growth.
Raritycommon
Description
A robust, woody vine known for its very large, fragrant, trumpet-shaped flowers, typically golden yellow with a darker throat. Its glossy, oval leaves grow along thick, climbing stems.
