Tree Tomato, Red (Cyphomandra betaceae)
The exotic egg-shaped Tree Tomato aka Tamarillo fruit can be used fresh in drinks or salads or eaten fresh out of hand. The soft, dense flesh of the Tamarillo is tangy and variably sweet, with a bold and complex flavor that may be compared to kiwifruit, tomato, guava, or passion fruit. The skin and the flesh closest to it has a more bitter taste and isn't usually eaten raw. The whole fruit can be preserved in many traditional ways.
Tree Tomato is native to parts of Central and South America. It's in the nightshade family of plants and prefers a subtropical-tropical climate but can be grown indoors. It can handle a bit of frost and continue to grow strong. This plant tolerates many soil conditions as long as it’s well draining, though compost-enriched soil is preferable for optimal growth. It can handle temperatures as low as 28 degrees and can grow up to 10-18 feet tall!
Plant Type:
Fruiting Shrub, Small Tree
Harvest Season:
Summer-Fall
Mature Size:
Up to 18 ft.
Soil & Moisture:
Fertile, light, well-draining soil.
Tree Tomatoes (both Red and Orange) need plenty of water (especially in extreme heat) as large, soft leaves transpire moisture quickly and fruit needs regular watering to develop well.
Light Requirements:
Full Sun, Part Shade
Self-Fertile:
Yes
Growth Rate:
Fast
Zone Hardiness:
Outdoors 9-11 with frost protection; Patio/Greenhouse 4+
Propagation:
Our Tree Tomato is grown from seed and is capable of producing fruit within 2 years.
