Solanum piliferum
Family: Solanaceae
What it is like
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.
Height (m): 0
Where it is found
Not known
Southern N. America - Mexico.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 2
Fruit - raw or cooked. A pleasant flavour, the fruit is apple-scented.
Medicine
Rating: 0
Other
Rating:
How it is grown
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.
Propagating it: 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.
Best place to grow: Cultivated Beds;
Habit: Perennial
Hardiness:
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)
Shade: No shade
Moisture: Moist
Things to keep in mind
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.