Tamarillo/Tree Tomato (Solanum betaceum) - Seeds
€2,60
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Tamarillo/Tree Tomato (Solanum betaceum) - Seeds
€2,60
Pickup available at Bei der Kirche 3
Usually ready in 24 hours
The tamarillo, botanically Solanum betaceum (formerly Cyphomandra betacea) and widely known as the tree tomato, is a fascinating member of the nightshade family. With its rapid, tree-like growth, huge soft leaves, and exotic egg-shaped fruits, it brings a tropical flair to balconies and patios. It is the perfect choice for anyone looking for an easy-care, fast-growing container plant with an exceptional and tasty harvest.
Scope of delivery: 10 seeds each
Overview of sowing tips:
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Pre-cultivation: Possible all year round, but ideally indoors on a bright windowsill from February to April
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Sowing depth: Only cover seeds lightly with seed compost (about 0.5 cm) and press down gently
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Germination temperature: 20 to 25 degrees Celsius (constant warmth is important)
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Germination period: Often somewhat irregular, usually between 14 and 28 days
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Moisture: Keep the substrate consistently moist but not wet, preferably using a spray bottle
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Pricking out: Once the second pair of true leaves has formed, carefully transplant into larger pots
Growth habit, location, and care:
The tree tomato lives up to its name, growing rapidly into a small, woody tree reaching two to three meters in height. It forms very large, heart-shaped leaves through which it transpires a great deal of moisture. Accordingly, its water requirements in summer are high; on hot days, it often needs to be watered generously and regularly. The location should be bright, warm, and protected from strong winds so that the soft leaves do not tear. As the tamarillo is a heavy feeder, it benefits from a weekly nutrient application during the growing season. The plant is sensitive to cold and is absolutely not winter-hardy. It must be moved to a bright, cool winter location (10 to 15 degrees Celsius is ideal) before the first frosts.
Harvest and use:
The delicate, slightly fragrant flowers often appear in the second year, developing into egg-shaped fruits that turn deep red to orange when ripe. As soon as they yield to light pressure, they are ready for harvest. The jelly-like flesh offers a unique, sweet-tart aroma reminiscent of a mixture of tomato, passion fruit, and kiwi. Since the firm skin is very bitter, the tamarillo is usually halved and simply scooped out fresh like a kiwi. It is also excellent for exotic fruit salads, chutneys, spicy salsas, or as a savory accompaniment to various dishes.
Origin:
The tree tomato originally comes from the highlands of the South American Andes, where it is native to countries such as Peru, Chile, Ecuador, and Colombia. There, it thrives wild in the tropical highland climate, which gives it good adaptability to our summer temperatures, while simultaneously requiring frost-free overwintering.