AKA Fire-and-Ice Plant and Sticky Nightshade. This very pretty plant originated in South America, but has been naturalized in many countries. Litchi plants grow up to 5�� tall and are covered with thorns. The sweet red fruit can be eaten all summer right from the plants! The fruit is the size of a cherry tomato and tastes like a sour cherry crossed with a tomato. They can be used in fruit tarts, preserves, jams and sauces, and even in sorbets and wines.�
Additional Info
Botanical Name
Solanum sisymbriifolium
Life Cycle
Perennial
Min. Time to Germinate
14 Days
Max. Time to Germinate
21 Days
Depth to Sow Seeds
1/8 in.
When to Sow
Indoors 6-8 weeks before last spring frost
Growing Height
4-6 ft. (1.2-1.8 m)
Plant Spacing
24-36 in. (60-90 cm)
Hardiness
USDA Zone 6a: to -5F, USDA Zone 6b: to 0F, USDA Zone 7a: to 5F, USDA Zone 7b: to 10F, USDA Zone 8a: to 15F, USDA Zone 8b: to 20F, USDA Zone 9a: to 25F, USDA Zone 9b: to 30F, USDA Zone 10a: to 35F, USDA Zone 10b: to 40F, USDA Zone 11a: to 45F, USDA Zone 11b: to 50F
Sun Exposure
Full Sun, Sun to Partial Shade
Danger
Parts of plant are poisonous if ingested, Plant has spines or sharp edges; use extreme caution when handling
Bloom Color
White/Near White
Other Details
Average Water Needs; Water regularly; do not overwater, This plant is attractive to bees, butterflies and/or birds
Soil pH Requirements
6.1 to 6.5 (mildly acidic), 6.6 to 7.5 (neutral), 7.6 to 7.8 (mildly alkaline)
Days to Harvest
70-80
Propagation Methods
From seed; direct sow after last frost, From seed; direct sow outdoors in fall, From seed; sow indoors before last frost, From seed; winter sow in vented containers, coldframe or unheated greenhouse
Seed Collecting
Unblemished fruit must be significantly overripe before harvesting seed; clean and dry seeds