Cyphomandra crassifolia
tamarillo
A fast growing, tender, woody plant with large evergreen leaves. Often grown for the orange and red, oval shaped, edible fruits that ripen in late summer and autumn
Other common names
tree tomato
Size
Ultimate height
4–8 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
2.5–4 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | White | Green | Orange Red | |
| Autumn | Green | Orange Red | ||
| Winter | Green |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H1BBotanical details
- Family
- Solanaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Habit
- Columnar upright, Bushy
- Genus
Solanum can be annuals, perennials, evergreen or deciduous shrubs or twining climbers, with simple or pinnnately lobed leaves and star- or bowl-shaped, 5-lobed flowers with prominent stamens, followed by fleshy fruits
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- South America
How to grow
Cultivation
Can be planted in a glasshouse. Also suitable for containers, placing outside during summer and brought under glass during colder months. Grow in full sun. If grown from seed, will start fruiting in second or third year. See tomato cultivation for further advice
Propagation
Propagate by seed or softwood cuttings
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Patio and container plants
- Edible fruit
- Conservatory and greenhouse
Pruning
There is no need for regular pruning. If it is necessary to reduce the size, pruning can be done in autumn
Pests
May be susceptible to aphids and glasshouse red spider mite
Diseases
May be susceptible to honey fungus (rarely) and powdery mildews
Get involved
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