Litchi Tomato (Solanum sisymbriifolium)
The unique Litchi Tomato shrub, also referred to as Morelle De Balbis or Vila-Vila, is a prickly, pest-resistant member of the Solanaceae family and is related to Tomatoes and Eggplants. Litchi Tomato plants can be grown as an annual or a perennial!
Originally from South America, the showy-white flowered, thorny wonders are surprisingly cold tolerant. They're best handled with gloves, as almost all of the plant comes armed with protective spines. The deep red Litchi Tomato blooms in May and grows small fruits encased in a spikey green husk and comes easily off its stem when ripe. The fruit’s interior holds juicy, sour yellow flesh reminiscent of tart cherries.
A fast and strong grower, there will be no lack of fruit to pick in no time! Litchi Tomato is a very intriguing garden berry with superb creamy and mild cherry flavor. A totally unique fruit, it can be used in a variety of culinary creations - mock cherry pies to chutneys, jams, and even pickles! Can easily be grown in the ground or in containers.
Plant Type:
Perennial Herbaceous Shrub
Annual in cooler regions.
Harvest Season:
Late Summer, Fall
Mature Size:
Up to 5 ft. tall
Soil & Moisture:
Rich, well-draining soil. Frost tender.
Light Requirements:
Full Sun, Part Shade
Tolerates low-light, but grows best with full sun.
Self-Fertile:
Yes
Growth Rate:
Fast
Zone Hardiness:
Outdoors 9-11 with frost protection; Patio/Greenhouse 4+
Propagation:
Our Litchi Tomato Plants are grown from seed and are capable of fruiting within one growing season.
