Solanum supinum

Family: Solanaceae

What it is like

A shrub. It is partly erect or lies along the ground. It has broad leaves. It takes 2 years to complete its lifecycle. It grows 50 cm high. It has spines. The leaves are wavy along the edge. They have a bluish covering. The flowers are yellow or blue-white. They have 5 lobes. They are in the axils of leaves. The fruit are berries 2 cm across. They have cream stripes along them and turn yellow when ripe.

Where it is found

It is a subtropical plant. It grows in hot arid places with a marked dry season lasting 6-11 months. It grows in well drained soil. It grows between 900-1,800 m above sea level. It can tolerate some shade. It can grow in arid places.

Countries/locations it is found in

Africa, Botswana, Lesotho, Namibia, South Africa (country/location of origin), Southern Africa

How it is used for food

The fruit are used for dairy like preparations. They are used to curdle milk.

Edible parts

Fruit

How it is grown

Its other names

Local names

Synonyms

Solanum aranoideum Dammer; Solanum leucophaeum Dunal; Solanum lyratifolium Dammer;