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Naranjilla Solanum quitoense Bright orange fruit about the size of a
large cherry tomato. Fruits are covered with numerous fuzzy hairs
that rub off when ripe. Pulp is green, acid, and of excellent
flavor. |
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Uses |
| Eaten fresh, but most commonly used to make drinks. Is also used in preserves and desserts. |
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Plant Cultivation |
| Medium sized shrub or small tree to 6-10ft. The naranjilla is subtropical
and enjoys slightly cooler than tropical temperatures. The plant contains
many large thorns growing out from stems, branches, and leaves. Leaf
veins are generally a deep purple color. Naranjilla's like frequent
watering and can stand brief temperature drops below freezing. It is
easily container grown, and is often done so in areas with nematode
problems as it is susceptible to root nematodes. The naranjilla is thought
to be a short day plant, and may only set fruit when there are 8-10
daylight hours. |
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Origin and Distribution |
| Native to the Andes Mountains, at elevations between 3000-7000ft. |
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