Water
Tamarillos prefer consistent moisture but dislike waterlogged roots. Water deeply when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Reduce watering slightly during cooler months to prevent root rot.
Ensure good drainage to avoid issues.
Also known as Tree-Tomato
Tamarillo (Solanum betaceum) is a fast-growing shrub or small tree native to the Andes, producing edible, egg-shaped fruits popular in salads and jams.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Prefers at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and fruit production.
Consistent Moisture
50% intensity
Keep soil evenly moist, allowing the top layer to dry slightly between waterings. Avoid waterlogging.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Warm
75% intensity
Thrives in temperatures between 15-25°C. Protect from frost; it is not cold-hardy.
Regular Feeding
50% intensity
Feed with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season, reducing in winter.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | Yes |
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Tamarillos prefer consistent moisture but dislike waterlogged roots. Water deeply when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Reduce watering slightly during cooler months to prevent root rot.
Ensure good drainage to avoid issues.
Prune tamarillos to maintain shape, remove dead or diseased branches, and improve air circulation. Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
You can also prune lightly after fruiting to manage size and encourage next season's crop.
Tamarillos are typically propagated from seeds sown in spring. Germination can take 2-4 weeks. Cuttings can also be taken from mature plants, but success rates may vary. Seedlings grow faster and may fruit earlier.
Young tamarillos benefit from repotting annually into slightly larger containers until they reach their desired size or are planted outdoors. Use a well-draining potting mix. Repot in spring when new growth appears.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Tamarillo (Solanum betaceum)
Where Tamarillo (Solanum betaceum) 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 betaceum |
Similar in genus Solanum
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
