Naranjilla
Solanum quitoenseUSDA | Grow Zone
10-12Outdoors all year in zones 10 to 12. Anywhere colder, keep it as a houseplant. Protect it below 50°F.
- Light
- Partial shade to full sun
- Water
- Deeply once a week
- Humidity
- 60% to 80%
- Temperature
- 65-85°F (18-29°C)
- Difficulty
- Intermediate
- Growth
- Moderate
- Mature size
- 3-5 ft tall
Naranjilla, also known as Solanum quitoense, is a tropical fruit plant native to the Andean regions of South America. With its unique flavor and attractive foliage, it is a favorite among gardeners looking to grow exotic fruits.
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Ideal temperature
65-85°F is where it grows fastest. Below 50°F cold damage starts.
Spacing and harvest
- Mature size
- 3-5 ft tall
- Plant apart
- 24-36 in
- Frost
- Tender: no frost
- First harvest
- 60-90 days from planting
Everything it needs
9 essentials at a glance
Watering
Naranjilla prefers consistently moist soil but should not be waterlogged.
Water deeply once a week, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. During hot summer months, increase frequency to twice a week. Signs of over-watering include yellowing leaves and root rot, while under-watering can lead to wilting and leaf drop.
Light
Naranjilla thrives in partial shade to full sun, ideally receiving 6 to 8 hours of light daily.
It benefits from morning sun and afternoon shade, especially in hotter climates. Too much direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, while too little light can hinder fruit production.
Soil
This plant prefers well-draining, loamy soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.0.
A mix of potting soil, compost, and perlite is recommended to ensure good drainage and nutrient availability. Avoid heavy clay soils that retain too much moisture.
Humidity
Naranjilla enjoys high humidity levels, ideally between 60% to 80%.
To increase humidity, consider misting the leaves, using a pebble tray with water, or placing a humidifier nearby. Signs of low humidity include browning leaf edges and stunted growth.
Temperature
The ideal temperature range for Naranjilla is between 65-85°F (18-29°C).
It is sensitive to frost and should be protected in temperatures below 50°F (10°C). This plant thrives in USDA hardiness zones 10-12.
Fertilizing
Use a balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10 every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
Reduce feeding in the fall and winter months. Signs of nutrient deficiency include yellowing leaves (nitrogen), poor fruit development (phosphorus), and weak stems (potassium).
Pruning
Prune Naranjilla in early spring to remove dead or damaged branches and to shape the plant.
Use clean, sharp pruning shears to make cuts just above a leaf node. Regularly remove spent flowers to encourage new growth and fruiting.
Repotting
Repot Naranjilla every 1-2 years or when it becomes root-bound.
Choose a pot that is 1-2 inches larger in diameter. Signs it needs repotting include roots growing out of the drainage holes and stunted growth. Follow these steps: gently remove the plant from its pot, loosen any tightly bound roots, and place it in fresh potting mix.
Propagation
Naranjilla can be propagated through seeds or stem cuttings.
For seeds, sow them in a seed-starting mix and keep them moist until germination, which takes about 2-3 weeks. For cuttings, take 4-6 inch stem sections, remove lower leaves, and place them in moist soil. Timing is best in spring when temperatures are warming.
When it's unhappy
Yellow leaves
Why it happens
Over-watering or nutrient deficiency.
How to fix it
Check soil moisture and reduce watering frequency. Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer if nutrient deficiency is suspected.
Root rot
Why it happens
Poor drainage and over-watering.
How to fix it
Ensure proper drainage and reduce watering. If root rot is severe, consider repotting the plant in fresh soil.
Wilting leaves
Why it happens
Under-watering or high temperatures.
How to fix it
Increase watering frequency and ensure the plant is not exposed to extreme heat for prolonged periods.
Browning leaf edges
Why it happens
Low humidity levels.
How to fix it
Increase humidity through misting, using a pebble tray, or placing a humidifier nearby.
Poor fruit development
Why it happens
Insufficient light or nutrient deficiency.
How to fix it
Ensure the plant receives adequate sunlight and consider fertilizing with a balanced fertilizer.
Care through the year
Spring
In spring, prune any dead or damaged branches and begin fertilizing as new growth appears. Ensure the plant is adequately watered as temperatures rise.
Summer
During summer, monitor soil moisture closely and increase watering frequency. Provide afternoon shade if temperatures exceed 90°F (32°C).
Fall
In fall, reduce watering and stop fertilizing as the plant prepares for dormancy. Harvest any remaining fruit before the first frost.
Winter
In winter, protect Naranjilla from frost and cold temperatures. Reduce watering and keep the plant in a warm, well-lit area.
Toxicity & Safety
Naranjilla is generally considered non-toxic to pets and children. However, the unripe fruit and leaves contain solanine, which can cause gastrointestinal upset if ingested in large quantities.
Good to know
How often should I water my Naranjilla?
Water your Naranjilla once a week, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out. In hot weather, you may need to water twice a week.
What type of soil is best for Naranjilla?
Naranjilla prefers well-draining loamy soil with a pH of 5.5 to 7.0. A mix of potting soil, compost, and perlite works well.
Why are my Naranjilla leaves turning yellow?
Yellow leaves can indicate over-watering or a nutrient deficiency. Check the soil moisture and consider fertilizing if necessary.
What temperature is ideal for growing Naranjilla?
Naranjilla thrives in temperatures between 65-85°F (18-29°C) and should be protected from frost.
Can I grow Naranjilla indoors?
Yes, Naranjilla can be grown indoors as long as it receives adequate light and humidity. Consider using grow lights if natural light is insufficient.
How do I propagate Naranjilla?
Naranjilla can be propagated from seeds or stem cuttings. Sow seeds in a seed-starting mix or take cuttings in spring for best results.
What are common pests that affect Naranjilla?
Common pests include aphids and spider mites. Regularly check the undersides of leaves and treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap.
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