10 Seeds Tree Tomato Solanum betaceum Sweet Red Fruit

Tree Tomato, also known as Tamarillo, is a fast-growing subtropical shrub or small tree prized for its abundant clusters of oval, tangy-sweet red fruit. Native to South America, it offers an unusual and rewarding fruiting plant for growers in warm climates or those willing to overwinter it indoors in cooler regions.

The fruit is commonly used fresh, in salsas, chutneys, jams, and desserts, with a flavor often described as a blend between tomato and passionfruit. Plants grow upright with large, somewhat tropical-looking leaves and can begin fruiting within one to two years from seed under good conditions, making them an attractive ornamental and productive addition to a garden or large container. In cooler zones, they are best grown in a pot and moved indoors before frost.
Species: Solanum betaceum
Variety: Red
Type: Perennial shrub or small tree
Plant_Habit: Upright, branching
Sun: Full sun to partial shade
Soil: Rich, well-drained, slightly acidic
Days_to_Harvest: 300-600
Zones: 9-11 outdoors; container grown elsewhere
Germination: 14-30 days at 70-80F
Sowing: Surface sow, lightly press into soil, keep moist
Spacing: 6-10 feet apart
Notes: Protect from frost; thrives in warm, sheltered locations