Contents
Description
Solanum Sarrachoides, commonly known as the tomato bush or bitter apple, is a species of flowering plant in the Solanaceae family. It is native to South America but has spread to other parts of the world, including North America, Europe, and Asia, as an introduced species. The plant is an annual herb that grows up to 60 cm in height, with a hairy stem and leaves. It produces small, white, star-shaped flowers and yellow, egg-shaped fruit that are toxic to humans and animals.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Solanales |
| Family | Solanaceae |
| Genus | Solanum |
Appearance
The Solanum Sarrachoides plant has small, oval-shaped leaves that are hairy and slightly sticky to the touch. The stem is also hairy and has a greenish-gray color. The plant produces small, white, star-shaped flowers that are about 1 cm in diameter. The fruit is egg-shaped and yellow, with a slightly ribbed surface. The plant can grow up to 60 cm in height and is an annual herb.
Care Guide
The Solanum Sarrachoides plant requires regular watering, especially during dry periods. It prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Fertilization can be done with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season. The plant prefers full sun to partial shade and can be grown in hardiness zones 7-10. It is recommended to provide support for the plant as it grows to prevent it from falling over.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Solanum Sarrachoides plant is susceptible to several pests and diseases, including aphids, spider mites, whiteflies, and powdery mildew. Aphids and spider mites can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Whiteflies can be controlled with yellow sticky traps. Powdery mildew can be prevented by ensuring good air circulation around the plant and removing any infected leaves.
Habitat
The Solanum Sarrachoides plant is native to South America but has been introduced to other parts of the world as an invasive species. It can be found in disturbed areas such as roadsides, fields, and waste areas. It prefers well-drained soil and can grow in full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Solanum Sarrachoides plant toxic?
A: Yes, the fruit of the plant is toxic to humans and animals.
Q: Can the Solanum Sarrachoides plant be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown indoors in a sunny location.
Q: How often should the Solanum Sarrachoides plant be fertilized?
A: The plant should be fertilized every two weeks during the growing season.
Q: What are some common pests that attack the Solanum Sarrachoides plant?
A: Some common pests include aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies.
Related Plants
- Solanum Lycopersicum (Tomato)
- Solanum Dulcamara (Bittersweet Nightshade)
- Solanum Nigrum (Black Nightshade)
References
- USDA Plants Database. (2021). Solanum sarrachoides. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=SOSA2
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (2021). Solanum sarrachoides. Retrieved from http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=280817
- University of Wisconsin-Madison Division of Extension. (2021). Bitter Apple. Retrieved from https://fyi.extension.wisc.edu/weedsci/2016/09/13/bitter-apple/
