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If you think you know the aromatic diversity of the nightshade family, the Juã-Açu (Solanum oocarpum) will quickly prove you wrong. This rare fruit plant simply tastes amazing! You wouldn't believe how incredibly "rich" and complex the aroma of a Solanum can be: When tasting, you can detect intense exotic nuances of kiwi, apricot, achachairu, orange and passion fruit. This young plant is an absolute highlight not only for beginners, but also for enthusiasts who already own a specimen, as having a second plant for cross-pollination is often a major advantage for fruit yield.
What's included Single plant - 55cm in a 20cm pot
Growth habit, location and care As a classic nightshade, Solanum oocarpum loves a full-sun, warm and sheltered location in a large pot on the balcony or terrace. A well-draining, extremely nutrient-rich substrate is essential for healthy growth. Cultivation requires a little patience: The plants usually do not flower in their first year, but rather towards the second or third year. However, the wait is absolutely worth it, because once they reach maturity, they will reliably bear their spectacular fruit for at least another 6 years.
Winter hardiness and overwintering Since the Juã-Açu only flowers and bears fruit after two to three years, it is essential to cultivate it in a pot year-round. Although the plant can briefly withstand light frosts down to -3 degrees Celsius, the clear recommendation is to overwinter it in a bright place at at least 10 degrees Celsius. Watering is reduced accordingly during this dormant phase.
Uses While many wild species are primarily ornamental, the Juã-Açu is all about pure enjoyment. The fruit is an absolute exotic delicacy for fresh consumption and offers an incomparable taste experience, which is absolutely unique in its intensity here.
Origin and taxonomy The recent discovery story of this fascinating plant from the nightshade family (Solanaceae) is a real highlight: In 2008, Helton Muniz was working on the "Projeto Colecionando Frutas" (Fruit Collecting Project) in the Angatuba forest in the Brazilian state of São Paulo and discovered this species there. Since then, he has succeeded in successfully growing and cultivating this rare species, which meant that the very first seeds ever made their way to Europe a few years ago.