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Other Names: Tamarillo, Arbol de Tomate
Related To:
Tomato, Eggplant
Main Uses:
Fruit.
Growth Rate:
Fast. With good soil and lighting, a seedling will become a small tree within a year.
Mature Height/Spread:
Shrub to small tree, 10-18 feet, though occasionally taller.
Flowering/Pollination:
Self-fertile. Clusters of white to light pink blooms, caramel scented, occurring on new growth.
Tolerance:
Does not tolerate salt or drought. Roots should be moist at all times, but not waterlogged.
Soil/Nutrition:
Fertile soils that are light and very well drained. Greatly appreciates mulch, which helps to keep its roots moist. Adapts to a wide range of soil types, but prefers mild acidity.
Light:
Light shade to full sun.
Wind:
Easily damaged by strong winds. Has a shallow, brittle root system and needs a protected area.
Temperature:
Mature trees can shortly tolerate temperatures to 27 degrees with minor damage to smaller twigs. Prefers temperatures above 50 at all times, thriving in areas without frost. Best when grown in frost free climates.
Dangers:
None.
Diseases Prone:
White flies, mealybugs, powdery mildew, root rot from wind and over-watering. Nematodes are drawn to this species in sandy soils, so use abundant organic matter.
Bearing Age:
Grown from seed, it can bear fruit in less than 2 years. Large cuttings may flower bear fruit right away, but must not be allowed to until tree is strong and established. Lifespan of tree is short, lasting only 7-9 years. Luckily this is not much of a problem, as tamarillo is easy to propagate and bears very early in its life cycle.
Fruit:
Oblong egg-shaped tamarillo fruit occurs in colors ranging from light yellow to deep red. Fruit is usually harvested when skin turns color characteristic of the type being grown. Is considered fully ripe for eating when slightly soft. Taste and texture reminiscent of tangy tomato, and inner flesh has undertones of grape or passion fruit. Skins are bitter and typically are not eaten. Fruits have many small seeds.
History/Origin:
Tamarillo (pronounced "tam-a-ree-yo") is most likely native to elevated mountain regions of Peru, Chile, and Ecuador.
Species Observations:
Pruning and pinching encourages branching and fruiting. Likes warm soils and sun, and if it is too cold the growth may be stalled, especially in seedlings. Roots particularly sensitive to over-watering, and standing water is often lethal. Water well, but always take special care not to drown this species.
Propogation:
Seeds are a common method of propagation and will produce a more traditional tree form. Rooted cuttings, usually done from half-woody branches, will grow lower and more bushy. Grafts are also possible, but may not be very practical for this short-lived species.
Container Culture:
Tamarillos can make excellent fruiting houseplants, and can be grown in a pot for their entire lifespan. They prefer a location which receives direct sunlight.
Medicinal Uses:
Unknown.
Nutritional Information:
100 calories per 1 cup of fruit. Tamarillo is an excellent source of fiber, beta-carotene, and vitamin E. Also contains a fair amount of lycopene in the orange and red varieties.
Preparation / Food:
Usually eaten fresh, often chilled. Also used in salads and can also be stewed like a tomato.
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"Tree is in fine shape and budding! Packing was exceptional. Thank you so much!"
- Satisfied Customer 1
"WOW, Plant is 10X better than expected. Great condition. Thank you very much."
- Satisfied Customer 2
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