Also known as Mataserrano · Melon Shrub · Melon-Pear
Pepino (Solanum muricatum) is a tender perennial shrub producing mildly sweet, melon-like fruits. It thrives in warm climates and is ideal for containers or raised beds.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun to Partial Shade
75% intensity
Prefers at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Can tolerate some afternoon shade in very hot climates.
Consistent Moisture
75% intensity
Allow the top 2-3 cm of soil to dry out between waterings. Ensure excellent drainage.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Warm
75% intensity
Thrives in temperatures between 18-25°C. Protect from frost; it is not cold-hardy.
Moderate Feeding
50% intensity
Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer during the growing season (spring/summer).
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | Yes |
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water deeply when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Reduce watering during cooler periods or if the plant is not actively growing.
Overwatering can lead to root rot, so ensure good drainage.
Prune to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth. Remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches. Pinch back the tips of young shoots to promote branching.
Pruning also helps improve air circulation and can encourage more fruit production.
Pepino is easily propagated from stem cuttings. Take cuttings of about 10-15 cm length from healthy, non-flowering stems. Remove the lower leaves and insert them into moist potting mix or water.
Roots usually form within a few weeks.
Repot pepino plants annually or when they become root-bound, typically in early spring. Use a well-draining potting mix. Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one.
Ensure the new pot has drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Pepino (Solanum muricatum)
Where Pepino (Solanum muricatum) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Solanales |
| Family | Solanaceae |
| Genus | Solanum |
| Species | Solanum muricatum |
Similar in genus Solanum
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
