| Tree Tomato | |
| Cyphomandra betacea | |
| a.k.a. Tamarillo |
Although it looks much like a medium-sized tomato, the tree tomato is not a true tomato. Tasting somewhat like a tomato, it is usually eaten with sugar or boiled to make a popular and refreshing drink.
Description: An extremely fast growing shrub to 20ft. Flowers are self-pollinating, and tree tomatoes may bear from seed in just over a year.
Hardiness: Although it does better in climates where the temperature stays above 50F, the tree tomato is subtropical and will bear fruit in cooler climates. Hardy to 25F.
Growing Environment: Requires lots of water and good drainage--standing water will kill the plant in just a few days. Makes and excellent container plant in cold climates.
Propagation: Propagation is usually by seed, but grafting is also possible. Seeds can sprout quickly and seedlings usually show vigorous growth.
Uses: Uses are similar to common tomato. Eaten fresh and often boiled or pureed to flavor drinks.
Native Range: Native to the Andes mountains of Peru and Chile. Is now grown commercially in California an New Zealand.