TAMARILLO SEEDS

Cyphomandra betacea

Native to the Andean forests of Peru and Bolivia, this impressive Solanum species produces fragrant flowers and large edible fruits. Grown in New Zealand as a specialty food crop. Best suited to gardens in tropical or subtropical frost-free zones, but can be grown with marginal success in a large container. Plants seem to go dormant in the winter no matter where or how they are grown. The plants are dramatic and ornamental and worth the effort to experiment in the north.

Culture is similar to that of other Solanaceae: tuck seeds just beneath the surface of moist soil. Press to keep seed snug and mist generously with warm water. Cover with plastic to maintain moisture and temperature. Kept warm and moist in bright light seeds germinate within a week or two. Prick out seedlings with true leaves to grow on in individual pots. Roots are shallow and should not be allowed to dry out completely. Fertlize regularly and pot up into larger containers as necessary. Harden off carefully before placing in a sheltered location outdoors in part sun. Glazed ceramic containers are ideal. Mulch to maintain moisture.

Plants will quickly grow to 3'-5' in the first year, and sometimes larger! If fruiting begins, take time to stake the plants as the stems can be fairly weak and brittle. Though plants are listed as tolerating frost, they will defoliate and recovery indoors is challenging. Bring healthy plants indoors before frost threatens.

Fruits ripen from green to yellow to a sometimes-striped brownish red. Fruits are juicy and strangely delicious, but the skin is tough. Scoop out flesh for an interesting salsa or savory jam.

Packet contains at least 10 seeds.