PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full direct sunlight for 6–8 hours daily; tolerate partial shade but reduced fruit yield may occur
Watering
Water deeply when the top 5 cm of soil is dry; avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal disease development
Temperature
Optimal growth at 20–28℃; temperatures below 10℃ will stunt growth and delay fruiting
Characteristics
- Leaf: Dark green, compound pinnate leaves with serrated margins
- Fruit: Round, flattened beefsteak-style fruit with deep purple-black skin and green shoulders when unripe
- Stem: Hairy, green stems with small spines along petioles
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil consistently moist to support fruit development; avoid waterlogging
Fertilization
Feed every 2 weeks with balanced, diluted fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing with nitrogen, which promotes excessive foliage growth over fruit production
Banana peel compost tea：Soak fully composted banana peels in water for 24 hours; dilute 1:20 for root drench to boost fruit set and flavorPruning
- Remove suckers (side shoots) to direct energy toward fruit production
- Prune lower leaves to improve airflow and reduce fungal disease risk
- Trim yellowing or diseased foliage promptly to prevent spread of pathogens
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Foliage and unripe green fruit are toxic; ripe fruit is non-toxic
Humans: Foliage and unripe green fruit contain solanine; ripe fruit is safe for consumption
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: Heirloom cultivar prized for its unique smoky flavor and historical significance in Crimea
Usage: Edible fruit for fresh eating, sauces, and salads; ornamental foliage in edible garden landscapes
