PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun required for optimal fruit production; tolerate partial shade in extreme heat to prevent sunscald on fruit
Watering
Water deeply at the base to keep soil consistently moist; avoid wetting leaves to reduce fungal disease risk
Temperature
Best grown at 18–27℃; avoid frost and extreme heat above 35℃ which can halt fruit set
Characteristics
- Leaf: Compound pinnate leaves with serrated margins, medium green, fuzzy texture
- Fruit: Medium-sized, oblong purple-red tomatoes with green shoulders when unripe
- Stem: Vining, hairy stems with tendrils for climbing support
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil evenly moist; avoid overwatering to prevent blossom end rot
Fertilization
Diluted balanced organic feed every 2 weeks. Switch to phosphorus-rich feed when plants begin flowering to support fruit development
Banana peel compost tea：Use fully composted banana peels steeped in water at a 1:20 ratio for root drench; avoid raw peels to prevent pest infestations and odorsPruning
- Remove suckers (side shoots between main stem and branches) to direct energy to fruit production
- Stake or trellis vines to support heavy fruit clusters and improve airflow
- Trim lower leaves to reduce fungal disease risk and improve access for harvesting
- Remove diseased or yellowing leaves promptly to prevent spread of pathogens
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Solanine in leaves and stems causes vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy if ingested; fruit is safe
Humans: Leaves and stems contain solanine; ingestion causes mild gastrointestinal irritation; ripe fruit is non-toxic
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: Heirloom cultivar valued for cold hardiness and unique deep purple fruit; symbolizes heritage home gardening
Usage: Edible fruit for fresh eating, sauces, and canning; ornamental foliage and fruit for garden displays
