NARANJILLA Solanum quitoense

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NARANJILLA Solanum quitoense

10 seeds

$ 4.10 Back
Quantity:

Native to the Andes Mountains in Ecuador, at elevations between 3000-7000ft.

NARANJILLA Solanum quitoense has a 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. Eaten fresh, but most commonly used to make drinks. Is also used in preserves and desserts.

Naranjilla is a 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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Sowing instructions

Plant seeds 3/8 in deep in nursery beds in rows 8 in apart or in polyethylene bags containing a 50-50 mixture of potting soil and sand. In each bag, or each hole put 4 to 5 seeds expecting the emergence of 1 or 2 sturdy seedlings. Germination time varies from 15 to 40 days. Provide bright light - not full sun.