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Description
Solanum Muricatum, commonly known as pepino dulce, is a fruit-bearing shrub that belongs to the Solanaceae family. It is native to South America, specifically Peru and Chile, and is now widely cultivated in other parts of the world, such as New Zealand, California, and Europe. The plant is known for its sweet and juicy fruit, which is similar in taste to a cross between a cantaloupe and a pear.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Solanales |
| Family | Solanaceae |
| Genus | Solanum |
Appearance
The Solanum Muricatum plant can grow up to 1.5 meters tall and 1.2 meters wide. It has hairy stems and large, soft, and velvety leaves that are light green in color. The fruit is oblong or oval-shaped, with yellow or green skin that has purple stripes. The flesh is white or yellow, and contains small edible seeds. The plant also produces small, star-shaped, purple or white flowers.
Care Guide
Solanum Muricatum is a relatively easy plant to care for. Here are some tips:
- Water: The plant prefers moist but not waterlogged soil. Water it regularly, especially during hot and dry seasons.
- Fertilization: Use a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A pH of 6.0 to 7.0 is ideal.
- Sunlight: The plant requires full sun to partial shade. In hotter climates, partial shade is recommended.
- Hardiness Zones: Solanum Muricatum is hardy in USDA zones 8 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Solanum Muricatum plant is susceptible to a few pests and diseases, including:
- Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects feed on the plant’s sap and excrete honeydew, which can attract ants and cause fungal growth.
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause webbing on the plant and weaken it.
- Gray mold: This fungal disease causes grayish-brown patches on the plant’s leaves and fruit, and can cause them to rot.
Habitat
Solanum Muricatum is native to the Andes mountains in South America, where it grows in cool, humid, and subtropical climates. It prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate temperatures as low as 20°F (-6°C).
Question and Answer
Q: Is Solanum Muricatum a perennial or an annual plant?
A: Solanum Muricatum is a perennial plant.
Q: How long does it take for Solanum Muricatum to bear fruit?
A: Solanum Muricatum typically bears fruit within 4 to 6 months after planting.
Q: Can Solanum Muricatum be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Solanum Muricatum can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate the plant’s size.
Q: Can Solanum Muricatum be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, Solanum Muricatum can be propagated from cuttings taken during the plant’s dormant season.
Related Plants
- Solanum betaceum (Tree tomato)
- Solanum lycopersicum (Tomato)
- Solanum melongena (Eggplant)
- Solanum tuberosum (Potato)
References
- Hanelt, P., Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research, & Mansfeld, R. (2001). Mansfeld’s encyclopedia of agricultural and horticultural crops. Springer.
- USDA. (2021). Solanum muricatum Aiton. Plants Database. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=SOMU
- Wikipedia. (2021). Solanum muricatum. Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Solanum_muricatum
