Solanum betaceum, Cyphomandra crassicaulis, Cyphomandra betacea, Pionandra betacea, Solanum crassifolium

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The Solanum betaceum, more commonly known as the Tamarillo, is a small tree of 10 to 20 feet that is native to the Andes mountain in Peru. This tree prefers semi-shade and requires the soil to remain moist. It produces white or off-white flowers that can be slightly irritating to the skin, though these give way to the edible fruits. A mature plant is cold hardy and can survive temperatures at least as low as the 30s Fahrenheit for a short time, and is suitable for USDA Grow Zones 9 to 11.

The ripe fruits of the Solanum betaceum can range from orange to red to purple, depending on the variety, and are similar in size and shape to a hen's egg. The flavor of the fruit can vary from tree to tree, but generally it is juicy and sub-acid, and often likened to the garden tomato. These fruits can be eaten raw or cooked, though they should have their seeds and skin removed before cooking. The unripe fruits are slightly toxic.

The Solanum betaceum tree can produce hundreds of fruits on one mature tree in the right conditions. These fruits are an excellent source of vitamins and minerals and offer a range of benefits to those who eat them, including improved eye health and a boost in energy. Eating tamarillos on a regular basis can also help to reduce the risk of heart disease, can boost the immune system, and can help to promote healthy skin.

When growing Solanum betaceum in cold regions, the plant should be kept in a pot and brought indoors during the winter months. This will help to keep it safe from the harsh winter temperatures and will ensure that the tree can survive until the following growing season.

Similar plants:

• Solanum aculeatissimum, Solanum capsicoides (Cockroach berry, Indian Love Apple, Soda Apple, Devils Apple)
• Solanum atropurpureum (Malevolence, Purple Devil)
• Solanum bahamense (Bahama Nightshade)
• Solanum bonariense, Solanum grandiflorum (Granadillo)
• Solanum capsicastrum (Winter Cherry, False Jerusalem Cherry, Christmas Cherry)
• Solanum conocarpum (Marron Bacoba)
• Solanum diphyllum (Twoleaf nightshade)
• Solanum dulcamara (Bittersweet Nightshade, Climbing Nightshade)
• Solanum elaeagnifolium (Silverleaf Nightshade)
• Solanum gilo (Scarlet Eggplant, Gilo, Jilo)