Solanum betaceum TREE TOMATO (10 seeds)

Tree Tomato or Tamarillo, is a perennial, tropical, and non-hardy shrub from the Solanaceae family. This fast-growing plant reaches 2 to 3 meters in height and 1.50 meters in width. It is native to Central America.

The summer flowering of the tomato tree consists of a multitude of small white flowers arranged along the trunk. These highly fragrant flowers grow in clusters and are white and mauve in color.

The fruits of the tree tomato are called tamarillos. They resemble chicken eggs, are red in color, smooth and satiny, and measure 10 cm in length. They must be fully ripe to be consumed. The taste is slightly tangy and evokes flavors of peach, melon, and tomato simultaneously. Tamarillo flesh can be eaten raw or cooked, but the seeds and skin should not be consumed.

Tamarillo seeds from Solanum betaceum are brown, flat, circular in shape, and measure 5 millimeters in diameter, weighing only a few dozen grams.

The foliage of the tomato tree is dense, with each leaf measuring 30 cm in length and 10 cm in width. They are slightly fuzzy and green in color.

- Use:

This exotic shrub is primarily cultivated for the production and consumption of its sweet and often tangy fruits. It is eaten in fruit salads, jams, or juices. With its elegant habit, this tree can serve as an ornamental plant in gardens and is highly appreciated for its aesthetic appeal.

Tree tomato is also grown for the beauty of its leaves, flowers, and fruits. It can be cultivated as a fruiting shrub, bringing a touch of diversity to your outdoor space.

- Germination and Sowing:

• The ideal period to sow tomato tree is at the end of May, when temperatures begin to rise. If there is insufficient heat, the seeds will remain dormant.
• Sow the seeds in a tray of fine potting soil.
• Cover them very lightly with 0.5 centimeters of substrate.
• Water the culture gently with a spray bottle.
• Place the tray in a greenhouse at a temperature close to 30°C.
• Germination will begin approximately 3 to 4 weeks after sowing.
• Once the seedlings reach 15 cm in height, they can be repotted or planted directly in the garden.

- Soil type / Substrate:

The substrate for the tree tomato must be fertile, humus-rich, and, above all, well-drained. The soil should be light and loose.

- Exposure / Light:

It needs plenty of light to grow well and provide maximum fruit. It is recommended to plant it in a very sunny location.

- Temperatures / Hardiness:

Due to its tropical habitat, the tamarillo grows rapidly when the temperature ranges from 20 to 35°C. Below this, the plant stops growing. It is a non-hardy species that does not tolerate negative temperatures; therefore, it must be brought indoors during the winter period.

- Watering / Irrigation:

It is important to irrigate regularly, especially during planting. This plant requires significant watering throughout its growth. Mulching at the base of the plant is an excellent way to limit the frequency of watering and prevent soil water evaporation.

- Multiplication / Reproduction:

It can be propagated either by sowing its seeds or by stem cuttings. For cuttings, take 10 cm branch tips and insert them into pots of seedling compost, then place them in a warm greenhouse for one month.

- Pests / Diseases:

Tomato tree is sometimes attacked by aphids, whiteflies, and even spider mites. If this occurs, it is necessary to clean the leaves thoroughly with a water jet and then apply a treatment based on black soap.