Jerusalem cherry

solanum pseudocapsicum

Also known as: ["Solanum capsicastrum","Winter cherry"]

Family: Solanaceae Genus: Solanum Category: Flowers

Overview

A small, evergreen shrub with bright red berries and small, ovate leaves.

Benefits & Perks

["aesthetic foliage","seasonal color change"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Solanales
Family: Solanaceae
Genus: Solanum
Botanical Name: Solanum pseudocapsicum

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: indoor pot in a bright location away from direct sunlight
  • Suitable For:
    Collectors & Enthusiasts Indoor Plant Lovers
  • 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 potting mix with added perlite or sand for aeration.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 6–12 months or after flowering.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if overgrown.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates some direct sun but prefers filtered light.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun; protect from intense midday sun; adjust light exposure based on indoor/outdoor placement.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil or drainage issues.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

easy

Sunlight

bright indirect light to partial shade

Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid prolonged direct sun.

Watering

every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings

Allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering; ensure good drainage.

Soil

well-draining, loamy potting mix with added perlite

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Use a mix with good drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; topdress with compost occasionally.

Temperature

Prefers 65–75°F (18–24°C); tolerates 50–85°F (10–29°C); avoid sudden temperature fluctuations.

Avoid cold drafts; maintain consistent room temperature; protect from extreme heat.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer)

Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid overfertilizing.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings in water or soil.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Place in medium.
  4. Keep moist and warm.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when plant is actively growing.

Environment

Warm, humid environment with indirect light.

Medium

Well-draining potting mix or water with occasional root hormone application.

Hormone

Optional but can speed up rooting.

Timeline

Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, water or soil medium.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain consistent moisture.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node.

Pruning Plan

Shape plant, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased stems.

Tools

Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.

Checklist

Sanitize tools; prune dead/diseased stems; shape plant; clean up debris.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before new growth begins.

Pot Size

Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.

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 fill the pot; promotes fresh soil and root growth.

Checklist

Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; use fresh soil mix; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water deeply at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; avoid wetting foliage; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.

Pro Tip: Use room temperature water to avoid shocking the roots.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water thoroughly when 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 organic matter for fertility; ensure good aeration.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Leaf drop, yellowing, or stunted growth; buds may fail to open.

Cold Stress

Slows growth; may cause leaf discoloration or drop; vulnerable to frost damage.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid placing near drafty windows or doors.

Hot Stress

Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering; may drop leaves to conserve water.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid overwatering.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; rinse pot periodically.

Fertilizing Method

Use 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

Yellowing leaves in Solanum pseudocapsicum can indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting the plant's photosynthetic efficiency and overall health.

Wilting in Solanum pseudocapsicum is often a sign of water stress, either due to under or overwatering, disrupting nutrient uptake and potentially leading to plant death if not addressed.

Leaf spots on Solanum pseudocapsicum may be caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, resulting in reduced photosynthesis and potential leaf drop, weakening the plant.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, can occur in Solanum pseudocapsicum due to excessive moisture or fungal infections, leading to decay and eventual plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Toxic

Cats are highly sensitive to the glycoalkaloids in Solanum pseudocapsicum, which can induce severe gastrointestinal and neurological toxicity. The berries pose the greatest risk due to their concentrated toxins.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy tremors muscle weakness seizures coma
🌿 Toxic Parts:
berries leaves
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Ensure cats cannot access the plant. Seek emergency veterinary care if ingestion occurs.
Dogs
Toxic

The glycoalkaloid solanocapsine in Solanum pseudocapsicum can cause severe gastrointestinal upset and neurological effects in dogs. The berries are especially hazardous due to their high toxin concentration.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy tremors difficulty breathing seizures
🌿 Toxic Parts:
berries leaves
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep pets away from the plant. Contact a veterinarian immediately if ingestion is suspected.
Humans
Toxic

Solanum pseudocapsicum contains solanocapsine, a glycoalkaloid that interferes with cellular metabolism, leading to gastrointestinal and neurological disturbances. The berries are particularly toxic due to higher concentrations of the compound.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting diarrhea abdominal pain dizziness headache confusion
🌿 Toxic Parts:
berries leaves
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep out of reach of children and avoid ingestion. Seek medical attention immediately if poisoning is suspected.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Solanum pseudocapsicum toxic to pets?

A: Yes, it is toxic to both dogs and cats.

Q: Does this plant require direct sunlight?

A: It prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate some direct sunlight.

Q: How often should I water Solanum pseudocapsicum?

A: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, avoiding overwatering to prevent root rot.

Quick Reference
Family: Solanaceae
Care: moderate
Light: bright indirect light to parti
Water: every 7–10 days, allowing so
Suitable For: ["collectors/enthusiasts","indoor plant lovers"]
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