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Annual BiennialShrubs

Solanum pseudocapsicum

Christmas cherry

A small, upright, bushy, evergreen shrub to 30cm, usually grown as a winter-fruiting annual. Leaves are narrow, dark green and glossy, with wavy-edges. In summer, it produces small clusters of white, star-shaped flowers, followed by long-lasting, spherical, red, yellow or orange fruit 1.5 to 2cm across

Other common names
Jerusalem cherry
Madeira winter cherry
see morewinter cherry
false Jerusalem cherry
Synonyms
Solanum capsicastrum
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Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
1 year
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Loam
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green
Summer White Green
Autumn Green Red Yellow Orange
Winter Green Red Yellow Orange
Position
  • Full sun
  • Partial shade
Aspect

East–facing or South–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H2
Botanical details
Family
Solanaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Bushy
Potentially harmful
Harmful if eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling Pets (dogs): Harmful if eaten - for further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants
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

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in peat-free, loam-based potting compost in bright light

Propagation

Propagate by seed or semi-ripe cuttings

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Houseplants
  • Patio and container plants
  • Conservatory and greenhouse
Pruning

Pruning group 9 if grown long term, otherwise no pruning required

Pests

May be susceptible to aphids and glasshouse red spider mite

Diseases

May be susceptible to honey fungus (rarely) and grey moulds

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