Naranjilla Fruit Plant (Solanum quitoense)

Botanical Name: Solanum quitoense

Common Names: Quito Orange, Peach Tomato, Naranjilla

General Information:

Tropical perennial plant native to northwestern South America, Highly esteemed fruit crop in Andean South America

Can grow 1 - 3 meters tall, Raw fruits are sweetened to make a delicious juice. Fruits are covered in stinging hairs, which are easily removed. Mainly used in sauces and preserves, Tart yet sweet flavor, very juicy and refreshing

Edible Uses:

Fruit can be eaten raw or cooked, Mainly used in sauces and preserves, Tart yet sweet flavor, very refreshing, Juice is rich in protein and minerals, and used in effervescent drinks.

Hairs on the skin of the fruit are removed before consumption. Fruit is up to 5cm in diameter, produced in clusters of 3 - 4.

Medicinal Uses:

Fruit is used to make a beverage that can treat angina

Flowers are used in the treatment of diarrhea

Other Uses:

Extract of the fruit is used in commercial cosmetic preparations as a hair and skin conditioner, Fruit is used as a hair shampoo.

Cultivation Details:

Bloom Time/Fruiting: 1 Year

Maintenance Required: Moderate