Red Tamarillo Plant (Solanum betaceum) 2L Pot

Solanum betaceum is a fast-growing subtropical fruit plant grown for its broad foliage and oval red fruit.

Red Tamarillo develops large, heart-shaped green leaves on upright, soft-wooded stems. Mature plants produce clusters of small pinkish-white flowers followed by egg-shaped fruit that ripens from green to orange-red or deep red.

The flesh has a tangy, sweet and slightly sharp flavour. Ripe fruit can be eaten fresh or used in juices, sauces, chutneys and desserts.

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

Plant Details

Botanical name: Solanum betaceum
Common names: Tamarillo, 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: Oval fruit ripening to orange-red or deep red
Flavour: Tangy, sweet and slightly 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 Tamarillo in fertile, moisture-retentive but well-draining compost. Move the plant into progressively larger containers as it grows, eventually using a substantial pot to support the mature plant.

Keep the compost consistently moist during active growth, but do not leave the pot standing in water. Irregular watering can cause stress and may affect flower and fruit development.

Place the plant somewhere warm, bright and sheltered. Its large leaves and relatively brittle branches can be damaged by strong winds, particularly once fruit begins to develop.

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. Growth will slow considerably during winter, so reduce watering while ensuring the compost does not dry out completely.

Fruiting in the UK

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 and ripening cannot be guaranteed in the UK.

What You Will Receive

You will receive one healthy Red 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.