About
A small, upright, bushy, evergreen shrub to 30cm, usually grown as a winter-fruiting annual. In summer, it produces small clusters of white, star-shaped flowers, followed by long-lasting, spherical, red, yellow or orange fruit 1.5 to 2cm across. Leaves are narrow, dark green and glossy, with wavy-edges.
About the genus
Solanum can be annuals, perennials, evergreen or deciduous shrubs or twining climbers, with simple or pinnnately lobed leaves and star- or bowl-shaped, 5-lobed flowers with prominent stamens, followed by fleshy fruits
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeLoam
Soil pHNeutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH2
Plant details
Plant typeAnnual Biennial, Shrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height1 year
Suggested usesHouseplants, Patio and container plants
ToxicityHarmful if eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling Pets (dogs): Harmful if eaten - for further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants
Care notes
CultivationGrow in peat-free, loam-based potting compost in bright light
PruningPruning group 9 if grown long term, otherwise no pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed or semi-ripe cuttings
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to aphids and glasshouse red spider mite
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to honey fungus (rarely) and grey moulds