Solanum mauritianum, also known as wild tobacco, is a perennial plant that stands out in many tropical gardens. Originally from South America, it quickly adapted to a variety of environments, notably in Ivato and the subtropical regions around Antananarivo. It is particularly at home in humid, sunny areas, where it can reach heights of up to 4 meters.
Its thick, velvety, silvery-green leaves are one of its most distinctive features. During the flowering period, which can occur all year round, brown tobacco is adorned with clusters of delicate purple flowers, contrasting magnificently with its foliage. The bright yellow berries that follow the flowering attract many birds, contributing to the biodiversity of the botanical garden.
Au Bois Vert, Solanum mauritianum or Wild tobacco is a perfect example of the richness of tropical flora. Its presence enriches the gardens and provides a fascinating visual spectacle for visitors staying at the hotel or lodge. Its rapid growth and tolerance of varied conditions also make it a widespread species in urban and rural landscapes.
As a key attraction of the botanical garden, the Solanum mauritianum is an example of how nature harmoniously integrates into the experience offered by Au Bois Vert‘s restaurant and accommodation in Ivato.
Plant use
Despite its reputation as an invasive species in some regions, wild tobacco has many practical and traditional uses. In some cultures, its leaves and extracts are used in traditional medicine. Its bioactive compounds are being studied for their antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, although its use requires caution due to its potential toxicity. In the Au Bois Vert botanical garden, brown tobacco plays a decorative and educational role. Its rapid growth creates natural hedges, offering shade and refuge for local wildlife. The plant thus becomes an essential resource for educating visitors about conservation and ecological management of species. Au Bois Vert's restaurant and lodge also enhance its aesthetic appeal. Placed along pathways, it enriches botanical walks with its spectacular blooms. Garden guides often mention its botanical particularities, attracting the attention of nature lovers in Ivato and the Antananarivo region. In addition, Solanum mauritianum is sometimes used to support research into phytoremediation, a method using plants to absorb pollutants from the soil. These initiatives demonstrate the hidden potential of a plant that is sometimes poorly understood.
Key information
| Common name | Wild tobacco |
| Scientific name | Solanum mauritianum |
| Origin | South America (Brazil, Argentina) |
| Natural habitat | Tropical and subtropical regions |
| Life cycle | Perennial plant |
| Flowering period | All year round, with a seasonal peak |
