Tropical soda apple
Solanum viarum · Solanaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant tropical soda apple: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Common name
- Green nightshade, Traveling nightshade
- Family
- Solanaceae
- Plant type
- Annual to perennial herb
- Flowering
- July to October, white or pale blue flowers
- Mature height
- 0.5 to 1.5 m tall
- Foliage
- Deciduous, medium green, pubescent
- Hardiness
- Tender, annual or perennial in warm climates
- Origin
- South America (Brazil, Paraguay)
Care
Light exposure
Solanum viarum thrives ideally in very sunny exposure, with at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight. Insufficient light slows growth and flowering. In very hot climates, light afternoon shade can be beneficial.
Watering
Water regularly and keep the soil consistently moist without waterlogging. During active growing season, watering 2 to 3 times per week is generally necessary. Reduce watering slightly in winter or during dry season.
Soil type and planting
Choose fertile, well-draining soil rich in organic matter. Overly compact soil delays growth; improve it with compost or peat. This plant adapts to neutral to slightly acidic pH.
Fertilizer and nutrition
Apply balanced fertilizer (NPK 10-10-10) once a month during the growing period. Potassium-rich feed in summer promotes flowering. Reduce feeding in winter.
Pruning and maintenance
Pinch young plants to encourage branching. Remove spent flowers to stimulate flower production. Lightly prune after flowering to densify the plant shape and promote regeneration in spring.
Diseases and pests
Solanum viarum can be affected by whiteflies, spider mites, and aphids in warm climates. Watch for leaf spots related to excessive humidity. Ensure good air circulation and avoid watering foliage late in the day.
Did you know?
Solanum viarum is a nightshade native to tropical America, accidentally imported to other regions of the world by travelers and merchants. Its nickname 'traveling nightshade' precisely reflects this history of continental dispersal. Although it bears fruits resembling cherry tomatoes, it is strongly advised against consuming them, as its toxic alkaloids make it inedible, unlike its cultivated cousins.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- TomatoSolanum lycopersicum
- Sweet pepperCapsicum annuum
- EggplantSolanum melongena
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- Night jessamineCestrum nocturnum
- Potato vineSolanum laxum
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.