Nipplefruit, Cow’s Udder, Star Fruit
solanum mammosum
Also known as: ["Cow’s Udder","Star Fruit","Titty Fruit"]
Overview
A tropical perennial shrub native to South America, known for its unusual star-shaped yellow fruit with prominent protuberances resembling nipples or an udder.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Solanales |
| Family: | Solanaceae |
| Genus: | Solanum |
| Botanical Name: | Solanum mammosum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Fruits
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright, indirect light or outdoor garden bed in sheltered spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–30°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 potting mix with added perlite or sand for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done as needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate partial shade but may reduce flowering.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light, protect from direct midday sun, adjust placement based on season.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; move outdoors in spring/summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry between waterings, avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-draining, fertile potting mix with added organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use pots with drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 65–80°F (18–27°C); cooler temperatures (50–60°F) at night can enhance flowering.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; maintain consistent indoor temps.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; adjust based on plant growth.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting, remove lower leaves, dip in hormone, plant in medium, maintain humidity, wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (70–75°F), indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix like perlite and peat moss or cactus soil.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 3–6 weeks; new growth in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic bags or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips, cut just above a leaf node or bud, thin out crowded branches.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or diseased growth, shape the plant, encourage bushier growth and better flowering.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools, prune during dormancy, remove dead/diseased parts, shape evenly.
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.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if needed, place in new pot with fresh soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots outgrow the pot; promotes fresh soil and root health.
Checklist
Choose right pot size, prepare new soil, handle roots carefully, water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, avoid leaf wetting.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensure even saturation, allow excess water to drain, water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
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, ensure proper aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf yellowing, wilting, bud drop, or stunted growth.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop, increases susceptibility to disease.
Solution: Move to a warmer location, use a space heater if needed, avoid cold drafts.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; flowering may cease.
Solution: Provide shade, increase humidity, water more frequently, ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type, dilute correctly, apply during active growth, avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); cease in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicSolanum mammosum is toxic to cats due to the presence of solanine and other glycoalkaloids, which can cause severe gastrointestinal and neurological symptoms in felines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe glycoalkaloids in Solanum mammosum are toxic to dogs, causing gastrointestinal upset and potential neurological symptoms. The compounds can lead to significant discomfort and systemic effects in canines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicSolanum mammosum contains solanine and other glycoalkaloids, which are toxic compounds that can cause gastrointestinal distress, neurological effects, and potentially severe systemic toxicity upon ingestion. The physiological impact includes inhibition of cholinesterase and disruption of cellular functions.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Solanum mammosum edible?
A: The fruit is generally considered inedible due to its toxicity, though some cultures may use it in small amounts for traditional remedies.
Q: Why is it called Nipplefruit?
A: The common name refers to the fruit’s distinctive shape, which resembles nipples or an udder.
Q: How do I care for Solanum mammosum?
A: It requires warm, humid conditions, well-draining soil, and partial shade to full sun exposure. Regular watering is needed, but avoid waterlogging.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Solanaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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