SafePlants

Tamarillo (Cyphomandra betacea)

The tamarillo, also known as the tree tomato, is an intriguing plant appreciated for its edible fruit. While it resembles a tomato, it is not a true tomato but a close relative in the nightshade family.

Considerations for Pets

• The plant produces edible fruits, which may attract pets.

Considerations for Children

• The plant produces edible fruits, which may attract children.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Cyphomandra betacea
• Common Names: Tamarillo, Tree Tomato
• Family: Solanaceae (Nightshade family)
• Synonyms: Solanum betaceum, Cyphomandra crassicaulis, Pionandra betacea, Solanum crassifolium, Cyphomandra fragrans (Hook.) Sendtn.

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to Central and South America.
• Specifically mentioned as being from the highlands of Ecuador (Casana).
• A woody shrub from Peru.
• Introduced to many tropical areas and sometimes naturalized.

Morphological Characteristics

• Evergreen tree growing up to 5 meters (approximately 16 feet) tall, but often seen as a semi-woody shrub or small tree 2-3 m high.
• Fast-growing.
• Hardy to zone (UK) 9 and frost tender.
• In leaf starting January 12th.
• Large, deep green, heavily veined leaves.
• Unarmed (without thorns or spines).
• Short trunk and stout lateral branches.

Ecological Role

• May be naturalized in some tropical areas.

Traditional Uses

• Long been utilized for their edible fruits in their native Latin America.

Quirky Facts

• The fruit's taste is described as somewhat like a tomato, and also similar to custardy guavas.
• One source mentions that the tree tomato is considered a good source of antioxidants and calcium.