MILTOMATE VALLISTO SEEDS

Solanum sp.

Monstrous plants produce thousands of tiny shiny black berries that are surprisingly sweet and delicious. Possibly a selection or subspecies or very close relative of Solanum nigrum, and as with all Solanum nigrum gardeners should be judicious in the consumption of raw fruits, which when ripe taste of blackberries and licorice, an odd combination that is at first startling and then quite addictive. Suitable for jams and jellies. Totally unique among “garden huckleberries", and by far the most agreeable in flavor. Plants grew to 6' in my garden, though they're typically listed as 3'-5'.

Start Miltomate Vallisto seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost: sow seeds onto soil surface and barely cover with fine vermiculite; mist carefully with warm water and cover with plastic to maintain warmth and temperature; kept at 75°F in bright light seeds will germinate in a week or so. Transplant to individual cells when plants have two sets of true leaves. Grow on in bright light at room temperature. Transplant outdoors into full sun after the last frost. Seemingly weak seedlings are quick to establish in warm sunny gardens and will promptly outcompete any adjacent plants. Tall sunflowers and caged currant tomatoes are good garden companions for these giants.

Unripe green fruits of this species should absolutely never be consumed. Take care to educate foraging children. Somewhat of a mystery to me, the species variety or subspecies is not known for certain. The flavor and stature speak to a careful selection for the purpose of cultivation and consumption. As usual, the internets are full of conflicting misinformation. Definitely delicious and edible and recommended.

Grown by Farmacie Isolde.

Packet contains at least 30 seeds.