Amber Tamarillo Plant (Solanum betaceum) 2L Pot

Amber Tamarillo is a fruiting form of Solanum betaceum grown for its broad foliage and golden fruit, which may develop a red blush as it ripens.

The plant produces large, heart-shaped leaves on upright, soft-wooded stems. Mature plants develop clusters of small pinkish-white flowers followed by oval fruit.

Amber Tamarillos are generally smaller and milder than many red-fruited forms, with a sweeter and less acidic flavour when fully ripe. The fruit can be eaten fresh or used in juices, sauces and desserts.

In the UK, Amber Tamarillo can be grown in a greenhouse, conservatory or as a summer patio plant. It grows quickly in warm conditions and benefits from shelter against strong winds.

Plant Details

Botanical name: Solanum betaceum
Common names: Amber Tamarillo, Amber Tree Tomato
Plant family: Solanaceae
Habit: Fast-growing, upright subtropical shrub or small tree
Potential height: Approximately 2–4 metres in cultivation under suitable conditions
Foliage: Large, heart-shaped green leaves
Flowers: Small pinkish-white, star-shaped flowers
Fruit: Golden fruit, sometimes developing a red blush
Flavour: Typically mild, sweet and lightly acidic
Position: Full sun or bright partial shade
Suitable for: Greenhouses, conservatories, patios and large containers
Hardiness: Tender and not frost hardy

Growing Advice

Grow your Amber Tamarillo in fertile, moisture-retentive but well-draining compost. Move the plant into progressively larger containers as it develops.

Keep the compost consistently moist during active growth, but avoid leaving the pot standing in water. Water requirements will increase as the plant becomes larger and during warm weather.

Place the plant in a warm, bright and sheltered position. Its broad leaves can be damaged by wind, and branches carrying fruit may require support.

Feed regularly during spring and summer with a balanced liquid fertiliser. Change to a high-potassium feed once flowering begins.

Overwinter in a bright, frost-free greenhouse, conservatory or indoor growing space. Reduce watering during winter when growth slows.

Fruiting in the UK

Amber Tamarillo requires warmth, strong light and a long growing season. Mature plants may flower and produce fruit under greenhouse or conservatory conditions, but fruit production, colouring and ripening cannot be guaranteed in the UK.

What You Will Receive

You will receive one healthy Amber Tamarillo plant growing in a 2-litre pot. Plants are typically dispatched at approximately 20–30 cm tall.

Plant height, leaf size and colouring will vary naturally depending on the time of year and stage of growth.

Important Information

Do not eat the leaves, stems or flowers. Only fully ripe fruit should be considered for consumption.

Keep the plant away from children and pets that may chew the foliage.