Solanum quitoense LULO (10 seeds)

Lulo, also known as Naranjilla or Quito Nightshade (Solanum quitoense), is a perennial fruit-bearing plant typically grown as an annual. It belongs to the Solanaceae family. This fast-growing variety is native to South America, specifically Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru.

The plant reaches nearly two meters in height and has a bushy habit. Its leaves are large, oval to lobed, and generally measure between 15 and 30 cm in length. They have a rough texture, are often slightly wavy, and are equipped with sharp spines. They are bright green, with a smooth upper surface and a fuzzy, downy underside.

The star-shaped flowers have five petals and range from white to light purple, measuring about 2 to 5 cm in diameter. The spherical fruits, about 5 to 10 cm in diameter, resemble small tomatoes and turn from bright green to yellow or orange when ripe. Inside, the fruit contains a juicy, tangy, green-to-orange pulp filled with small seeds. Its taste is often described as a refreshing blend of pineapple, lemon, and kiwi.

Lulo seeds are yellow, flattened, rounded, and feature a small notch where the sprout emerges.

- Properties / Uses:

Its berries, with their vibrant green and juicy flesh, are excellent. They can be eaten fresh or used to prepare juices, smoothies, sorbets, and jams. The unique, sweet, and fragrant flavor makes it a popular ingredient in South American refreshing drinks.

Primarily grown for its exotic fruit, it is also valued for its decorative appearance. It is ideal for pots or terraces to add a tropical touch to your exterior. If you are seeking an exotic look, it can be grown as a focal point in a tropical garden to enhance your landscaping.

- Germination and Sowing:

• The best time to sow naranjilla is at the end of May when temperatures are high enough.
• Sow them in a tray of potting soil.
• Cover them with a few millimeters of substrate.
• Water gently with a hand sprayer.
• Place the culture in a greenhouse at a temperature of 30 to 35°C.
• Germination will begin 3 to 6 weeks after planting.

- Substrate / Soil Type:

It prefers a well-drained substrate rich in organic matter and humus. A mix of potting soil, compost, and perlite is perfect for root aeration and preventing root rot.

- Exposure / Light:

This shrub requires a sunny exposure to thrive. It is recommended to place it where it receives at least 8 hours of direct light per day. While it can handle partial sun, insufficient light may hinder fruit production.

- Temperature / Hardiness:

It grows best in warm temperatures between 20 and 30°C. It is not hardy and is sensitive to winter cold. In temperate climates, it is advisable to grow Lulo in a pot so it can be moved indoors during cold spells.

- Watering / Irrigation:

Watering should be regular but moderate. It is crucial to keep the soil slightly moist without saturating it. During active growth, weekly watering is usually sufficient, while frequency should be reduced during dormancy.

- Multiplication / Reproduction:

Reproduction is mainly done by seed, but it can also be propagated by cuttings, where stem segments are rooted to produce new plants.

- Pests / Diseases:

Watch out for aphids, which feed on sap and weaken young plants, and scale insects, which settle on leaves and stems causing discoloration. Regular monitoring and integrated pest management are essential.

- Maintenance:

Remove dead leaves from the bottom as the plant grows. Apply a little organic fertilizer four months after planting.