Solanum quitoense
TAXONOMY
FamilySolanaceae
GenusSolanum
Zone10
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Solanum quitoense, commonly known as Naranjilla or Lulo, is a tropical perennial plant native to the Andean regions of Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Venezuela. It belongs to the Solanaceae family and is known for its small, round, orange fruit with a unique, tangy flavor. The plant has large, heart-shaped leaves with purple veins and spines, and it can grow up to 2-3 meters in height.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Lulo
Naranjilla
Quito-Orange
Solanum angulatum
Solanum macrocarpon
Solanum nollanum
Solanum quitense
Solanum quitoense f. septentrionale
Solanum quitoense var. septentrionale
OVERVIEW
WaterWet
SoilLoamy
LightIndirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature20° C
Humidity70%
GDD3,150
pH6
Pressure1,013 mbar
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DETAILS
Care Instructions
Solanum quitoense thrives in bright, indirect light and prefers moderate temperatures. It requires high humidity and should be watered regularly to keep the soil evenly moist. The plant can be grown both indoors and outdoors, but it should be protected from direct sunlight and strong winds.Harvest
Solanum quitoense, commonly known as naranjilla, is typically ready for harvest around 210 days after planting. The fruits should be harvested when they turn a bright orange color and are slightly soft to the touch. It is important to handle the fruits carefully to avoid bruising. Harvesting is usually done by hand, using gloves to protect against the small spines that can be present on the fruit and plant. The fruits should be picked during the cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late afternoon, to maintain their quality. After harvesting, the fruits should be stored in a cool, dry place to prolong their shelf life.Soil
Naranjilla prefers well-draining loamy soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be kept consistently moist but not waterlogged. A mix of garden soil, compost, and perlite or sand can provide the ideal growing medium.Fertilizer
Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer, such as 10-10-10, every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. This will provide the necessary nutrients for healthy growth and fruit production.Repotting
Repot Solanum quitoense every 1-2 years or when the plant outgrows its container. Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one and ensure it has good drainage. Gently remove the plant from its old pot, loosen the roots, and place it in the new pot with fresh soil.Propagation
Propagate Naranjilla through seeds or cuttings. Seeds should be sown in a warm, humid environment and kept moist until germination. Cuttings can be taken from healthy, non-flowering stems and rooted in a moist, well-draining medium.Pruning
Prune the plant regularly to maintain its shape and encourage bushier growth. Remove any dead or damaged leaves and stems, and trim back any overly long branches. Pruning can also help improve air circulation and reduce the risk of pests and diseases.Toxicity
Solanum quitoense is toxic to pets and humans if ingested. The plant contains solanine, a toxic compound found in many members of the Solanaceae family. Symptoms of poisoning include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Keep the plant out of reach of children and pets.Additional
Naranjilla plants can be susceptible to pests such as aphids, whiteflies, and spider mites. Regularly inspect the plant for signs of infestation and treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil if necessary. Providing good air circulation and avoiding overwatering can help prevent fungal diseases.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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