The fire dragon tooth, botanically known as Solanum pyracanthum, originally comes from Madagascar and belongs to the family of nightshade plants (Solanaceae). In its home, it grows in dry, sunny regions and is a popular ornamental plant in gardens worldwide due to its extraordinary appearance.
Fire Dragon Tooth (Solanum pyracanthum)
What makes the fire dragon tooth so special are its distinctive spines that grow along the leaf veins and stems. These spiny structures are orange to bright yellow and give the plant its unmistakeable, exotic character. In addition to the conspicuous spines, the plant bears velvety green, elongated leaves and develops delicate, violet flowers in the summer months, which later mature into small, round fruits. Although the plant is attractive, it should be noted that all parts of the Solanum pyracanthum are slightly poisonous.
Location: The fire dragon tooth prefers a sunny to full-sun location, as it is adapted to intense light conditions in its natural environment. It can be cultivated both outdoors and indoors in a very bright room.
Watering: Solanum pyracanthum requires regular but moderate watering. The substrate should dry slightly between watering to avoid waterlogging. Excessive watering can lead to root rot, which is especially dangerous in pots.
Temperature: Since this plant is heat-loving, it thrives best at temperatures between 20 and 28 °C. It is not frost-hardy, which is why it should be brought into the house or well protected in the colder months.
Substrate: Well-permeable, slightly sandy soil or cactus soil is ideal because the fire dragon tooth does not tolerate waterlogging. A permeable substrate contributes to the optimal health of the plant.
Cutting: The plant does not require regular pruning, but it may be helpful to remove dead or damaged leaves and spines to improve appearance and promote plant health.Fertilise the fire dragon tooth every 3 to 4 weeks during the growth phase from spring to late summer with a cactus fertiliser or a low-nitrogen, phosphorus-rich liquid fertiliser to support root growth and flower formation. In autumn and winter, the fertilisation can be stopped, as the plant passes into a resting phase.
In its native Madagascar, the fire dragon tooth grows in dry, sunny areas, often in rocky or sandy soils. There he has adapted to the extreme conditions with little water and a lot of sun. These adjustments make it very easy to care for even in cultivation, provided it gets enough light and the right amount of water.