Tamarilo 'Rojo Grande de Carmelo' Plant (Solanum betaceum) 2L Pot

Tamarillo ‘Rojo Grande de Carmelo’ is a selected red-fruited form of Solanum betaceum grown for its broad foliage and large, deep red fruit.

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

The ripe fruit has juicy, sweet-sharp flesh and can be eaten fresh or used in juices, sauces, chutneys and desserts.

In the UK, ‘Rojo Grande de Carmelo’ can be grown in a greenhouse, conservatory or as a summer patio plant. It is fast growing in warm conditions and benefits from shelter against strong winds.

Plant Details

Botanical name: Solanum betaceum ‘Rojo Grande de Carmelo’
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: Large oval fruit expected to ripen to deep red
Flavour: Juicy, tangy and sweet-sharp
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.

Keep the compost consistently moist during active growth, but avoid waterlogging. Large container-grown plants may require frequent watering during warm summer weather.

Place the plant somewhere warm, bright and sheltered from strong winds. The leaves can tear in exposed conditions, while 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 as growth slows.

Fruiting in the UK

‘Rojo Grande de Carmelo’ 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.

Fruit size, colour and flavour may vary according to plant maturity and growing conditions.

What You Will Receive

You will receive one healthy Tamarillo ‘Rojo Grande de Carmelo’ 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.