Wild Tomato
solanum pimpinellifolium
Also known as: ["Inca Tomato","Peruvian Tomato"]
Overview
A wild species of tomato native to western South America, often considered the ancestor of modern cultivated tomatoes.
Benefits & Perks
["edible fruits","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Solanales |
| Family: | Solanaceae |
| Genus: | Solanum |
| Botanical Name: | Solanum pimpinellifolium |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Fruits
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in full sun or container with adequate drainage
- 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 and root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, fertile soil with good organic matter content; a mix of potting soil, compost, and perlite or sand works well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning can be done throughout the growing season; major pruning is best done in early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant’s growth if necessary, but avoid excessive pruning dur
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight per day); adjust for intense summer heat by providing partial shade during peak hours.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from scorching by providing shade during midday in hot climates; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light indoors; avoid placing near reflective surfaces that intensify sunlight.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing frequency in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure proper drainage; avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal diseases.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid compacted soil; test pH periodically; amend as needed.
Temperature
Ideal range: 65–85°F (18–29°C); prefers warm conditions; avoid exposure to temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
Avoid placing near drafty windows or air vents; use a thermometer to monitor microclimates; adjust watering based on temperature fluctuations.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
Apply fertilizer to moist soil to prevent root burn; avoid over-fertilizing, which can harm the plant; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed propagation; stem cuttings are faster and more reliable for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting just below a leaf node.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F), humid environment with bright, indirect light; protect from direct sunlight and drafts.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix (e.g., peat-based mix with perlite or sand); can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates, especially for stem cuttings.
Timeline
Roots typically develop in 2–4 weeks; plants may take 2–3 months to establish fully.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems for cuttings; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible to speed up rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips to encourage branching; remove suckers or lateral stems that grow from the base; trim back overgrown or leggy stems.
Pruning Plan
Prune to encourage bushier growth, improve air circulation, and remove diseased or non-productive stems.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution (e.g., rubbing alcohol), gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools before and after use; prune during dry conditions; make clean cuts just above a leaf node or bud; dispose of pruned material properly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (e.g., 2 inches wider in diameter) than the current one.
Method
Remove the plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; beneficial for maintaining vigor and productivity.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; trim roots if necessary; water well after repotting; avoid fertilizing for a few weeks.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water early in the day; ensure drainage holes are clear; avoid overhead watering.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; use mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis (yellowing leaves), stunted growth, bud drop, or wilting due to extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth, reduce flowering, and can cause leaf drop or tissue damage.
Solution: Move plants indoors or to a protected location; use row covers or cloches for outdoor plants; avoid sudden temperature drops.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat leads to wilting, leaf scorch, reduced fruit set, and increased water demand.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter months; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season; reduce or stop fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are also susceptible to the toxic effects of solanine and other glycoalkaloids found in Solanum pimpinellifolium. Ingestion can lead to gastrointestinal distress and neurological symptoms, which may be severe.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe glycoalkaloids present in Solanum pimpinellifolium can cause significant toxicity in dogs, affecting the gastrointestinal and nervous systems. Symptoms can range from mild gastrointestinal upset to severe neurological effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicSolanum pimpinellifolium, commonly known as wild tomato, contains solanine and other glycoalkaloids which can be toxic if ingested in sufficient quantities. These compounds interfere with acetylcholinesterase activity, leading to neurological and gastrointestinal disturbances.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Solanum pimpinellifolium edible?
A: Yes, its fruits are edible, though they are small and often used for breeding purposes.
Q: How does it differ from modern tomatoes?
A: It is smaller, more wild in appearance, and considered the ancestor of modern tomatoes.
Q: Is it toxic to pets?
A: Mildly toxic if ingested in large quantities, but generally safe in small amounts.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Solanaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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