Brazilian potato tree
Solanum macranthum
Family: Solanaceae
What it is like
A small tree. It grows 10 m high. The branches and leaves can have sharp, hooked prickles. The leaves are large and 25-30 cm long. They are in clusters at the ends of branches. They are rough on the upper surface and hairy underneath. There are deep irregular lobes around the edges. They are unequal sided at the base. The flowers are shaped like stars and have 5 joined petals. The flowers can be 5 cm across. They are in clusters at the ends of branches. The flowers are pale purple to white. The stamens are yellow. The fruit are large berries. They can be 3 cm across. They are green to yellow when ripe.
There are about 1400 Solanum species. The fruit contain solasodine. It is used in medicine.
Where it is found
A tropical plant.
Countries/locations it is found in
Africa, Asia, Australia, Brazil, East Africa, Eswatini, Guyana, India, Malawi, Malaysia, SE Asia, South Africa, Southern Africa, South America, Sri Lanka, Swaziland
How it is used for food
It is cultivated.
Edible parts
Fruit
How it is grown
It is fast growing but short lived.
Its other names
Local names
Potato Seed, Potato tree, Terung pokok