Tamarillo
solanum betaceum
Also known as: ["Tree Tomato","Tomate de Arbol"]
Overview
A small tree or shrub in the nightshade family, known for its egg-shaped, edible fruit with a tangy flavor.
Benefits & Perks
["edible fruits","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Solanales |
| Family: | Solanaceae |
| Genus: | Solanum |
| Botanical Name: | Solanum betaceum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Fruits
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in tropical or subtropical regions
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter like compost or aged manure.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate pruning to remove old wood and shape the plant without removing more than one-third of the
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily). Adjust for young plants or hot climates by providing partial shade during peak afternoon heat.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate young plants to full sun gradually over 1–2 weeks; protect from intense midday sun in hot regions; ensure outdoor placement in well-lit areas.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use shade cloth in extreme heat; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing to every 14–21 days in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently to encourage deep root growth; avoid waterlogging; ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use raised beds in heavy soils; avoid compacted soil; test pH annually.
Temperature
Warm temperatures, ideally 65–85°F (18–29°C). Tolerates brief dips to 50°F (10°C) but thrives in consistently warm conditions.
Monitor nighttime lows; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in hot weather.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced fertilizer
Fertilize before new growth starts; avoid over-fertilizing to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing in late fall.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seeds. Stem cuttings are faster and more reliable for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–80°F), humid (60–70%), and bright indirect light with protection from direct sun.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus potting mix.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster and more reliable root development.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pot after 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning of branches; heading back to encourage bushier growth.
Pruning Plan
Prune to shape the plant, improve air circulation, and encourage fruit production. Remove dead or overcrowded branches annually.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, gloves, disinfectant for tools.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune dead/damaged branches first; make clean cuts just above buds or nodes.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container. Necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid overhead watering.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, focusing on the root zone. Apply until water drains from the bottom but avoid wetting the foliage. Water in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 7–10 days in warm weather and less frequently in cool periods. Adjust based on rainfall and humidity.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf drop in cold stress; wilting or scorching in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth, cause leaf drop, and may lead to frost damage if below 32°F (0°C).
Solution: Protect with frost cloth or move to a sheltered location; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause wilting, leaf scorch, and reduced fruit set due to dehydration and stress.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply at recommended rates; water before and after fertilizing.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer (10-10-10) in early spring and midsummer. Dilute liquid fertilizers to half-strength if used monthly during growing season.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may suffer mild gastrointestinal issues if they ingest significant amounts of tamarillo seeds or skin. The fruit flesh is typically safe in small quantities.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Dogs
Slightly ToxicDogs may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they consume large quantities of tamarillo seeds or skin due to the presence of solanine. The fruit flesh is generally safe in moderation.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Humans
Slightly ToxicThe seeds and skin of Solanum betaceum (tamarillo) contain small amounts of solanine, a glycoalkaloid that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when consumed in large quantities. The flesh of the fruit is generally safe for consumption.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the tamarillo fruit safe for consumption?
A: Yes, the fruit is edible and commonly consumed, though the skin and leaves are mildly toxic.
Q: How often should I water a tamarillo plant?
A: Water regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged, especially during fruiting.
Q: Does the tamarillo plant require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Solanaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
