NARANJILLA SEEDS

Solanum quitoense

COMPLETELY SOLD OUT FOR 2024!

This fantastic Solanum grows wild in the jungles of northwestern South America and was extensively foraged, possibly even cultivated, by the Inca. The fruits of Naranjilla are soft, sweet and tart and perfect for juicing.

Naranjilla plants are big dramatic tropical things, their broad purple-veined leaves covered with purple or silvery trichomal fuzz. Some strains feature long dramatic spikes, but these seeds will most likely produce plants with few spikes if any. Plants may grow to 5 'in a container kept in a greenhouse or on a warm, sunny patio.

Seeds must be started in January or February in order to produce fruit in the same year: press seeds into moist soil, just barely covering with fine vermiculite as seeds require light to germinate, and mist generously with hot water. Cover with plastic to maintain moisture and temperature. Kept warm (85°F) and moist in bright light, seeds will germinate in about two weeks. Prick out seedlings to grow on in individual 6” pots in bright light at warm temperatures. Transplant to a larger pot outdoors after all danger of frost has past.

These plants are adapted to grow in a jungle understory, and will appreciate dappled shade in very hot climates. In cooler locations they will likely require full sun to produce fruit. If leaves begin to curl, fade, or look unhappy, provide part shade. Fruit production will benefit from azomite, which can be mixed into the potting soil. One plant may produce a dozen or more fruits in the second year.

Plants are easily overwintered indoors if watered regularly. Fruit crop in the second year is better than in the first. The bigger the container, the happier the plant will be. Root system is extensive. Plants should be repotted every year.

This species will tolerate light frost and can be kept outdoors well into autumn here in the Northeast. Bring indoors when a hard freeze threatens.

Packet contains at least 20 seeds.