Naranjilla
solanum quitoense
Also known as: ["Lulo","Sanguazo","Naranjilla de Quito"]
Overview
A tropical fruit-bearing shrub native to the Andes, known for its large, velvety leaves and round, orange fruits.
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 quitoense |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Fruits
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in a warm, sheltered spot or protected outdoor garden bed
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°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, slightly acidic soil with organic matter, such as a mix of cactus soil and peat moss.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning every 2–3 months; major pruning annually or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth at a time to avoid shock.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct light, protect from intense sun to prevent scorching, adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to filtered sunlight
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; move outdoors in spring/summer for stronger light.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry between waterings, avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-draining, fertile, slightly acidic potting mix
pH: 5.5–6.5 (slightly acidic).
Use a pot with drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; test pH periodically.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but dislikes prolonged cold or heat extremes.
Avoid drafty areas; use a thermometer to monitor; adjust watering based on temperature.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with balanced liquid fertilizer
Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid overfertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings with at least 2–3 nodes, or by division of rooted offsets.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a cutting, apply rooting hormone, plant in medium, maintain humidity, wait for roots, pot separately.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (70–75°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand, or a cactus/succulent potting mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to speed up root development.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 3–6 weeks; new growth may appear in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, humidity dome or plastic bag, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning of stems, heading back to encourage branching, and removal of damaged foliage.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears, gloves, disinfectant for tools.
Checklist
Disinfect tools, prune during dormancy or active growth, make clean cuts, remove debris, monitor plant response.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if necessary, place in a new pot with fresh soil, water lightly, and avoid direct sun for a few days.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for root health and growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot, prepare new soil, inspect roots, prune if needed, water lightly, adjust care post-repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water thoroughly, ensure drainage, avoid wetting leaves, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even saturation to a depth of 6–8 inches, allow excess water to drain, water in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage, incorporate compost for fertility, and adjust pH with peat moss or lime if needed.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis (yellowing leaves), leaf drop, stunted growth, or wilting in response to temperature stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth, cause leaf discoloration, and increase susceptibility to root rot.
Solution: Move to a warmer location, insulate pots, avoid overwatering, and provide a heat source if necessary.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat leads to wilting, leaf scorch, and reduced flowering or fruiting.
Solution: Provide shade, increase humidity, water more frequently, and ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type, dilute correctly, apply during growing season, flush periodically, monitor plant response.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); reduce or stop in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicSolanum quitoense is toxic to cats due to the presence of solanine and other glycoalkaloids. These compounds can cause severe gastrointestinal and neurological effects in felines upon ingestion.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe berries and leaves of Solanum quitoense contain solanine and other glycoalkaloids, which are toxic to dogs. Ingestion can lead to gastrointestinal upset, neurological symptoms, and potentially life-threatening conditions.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicSolanum quitoense contains solanine and other glycoalkaloids, which are toxic compounds that can cause gastrointestinal distress, neurological effects, and potentially severe systemic toxicity upon ingestion. The berries and leaves are particularly concentrated in these compounds.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Naranjilla safe for pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats, so ingestion should be avoided.
Q: How do I care for Naranjilla?
A: Provide partial shade, well-draining soil, and consistent moisture; protect from frost.
Q: Can I grow Naranjilla indoors?
A: It is challenging indoors due to its tropical requirements, but possible with sufficient light and humidity.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Solanaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to filtered sunl |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
