Devil's Potato

Echites umbellatus

Devil's Potato

Everglades NPS from Homestead, Florida, United States

Taxonomy

Division:
Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
Family:
Apocynaceae
Genus:
Echites
Species:
Echites umbellatus

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:
Perennial
Growth Habit:
Vine
Height:
12-20 ft
Light Requirements:
Full Sun
Drought Tolerance:
High
Bloom Months:
jan, feb, mar, apr, may, jun, jul, aug, sep, oct, nov, dec
Bloom Colors:
White

Native Range

United States: Florida, Navassa Island

Host Plant for Caterpillars

Faithful Beauty (Composia fidelissima), Pachylioides resumens, Polka-dot Wasp Moth (Syntomeida epilais)

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:
sandy, well-drained, nutrient-poor soil
pH:
5.5 - 7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral)
Drainage:
excellent drainage required
Moisture:
dry to moderate
Notes:
native to coastal regions, prefers sandy substrates