Solanum piliferum
Benth.
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MBG
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GBIF
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GBIF
Description
Solanum piliferum is a PERENNIAL. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil.
Edible Uses
Fruit - raw or cooked. A pleasant flavour, the fruit is apple-scented.
Known Hazards
Although no specific mention of toxicity has been seen for this species, it belongs to a genus where many if not all the members have poisonous leaves and sometimes also the unripe fruits.
Distribution
Southern N. America - Mexico.
Where It Grows
Coming Soon
Cultivation
We have very little information on this species and do not know if it will succeed in Britain, though judging by its native range it is unlikely to succeed outdoors even in the milder parts of the country. The fruit is sometimes sold in local markets in Mexico. The following notes are based on the general needs of the genus. Succeeds in most soils in a sunny position.
Propagation
Seed - sow spring in a warm greenhouse. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and plant them out after the last expected frost.
