Christmas cherry Solanum pseudocapsicum
ABOUT
Solanum pseudocapsicum, also known as Jerusalem cherry or winter cherry, is a small, evergreen shrub or small tree that is native to South America. It is a member of the Solanaceae family, which also includes tomatoes, peppers, and eggplants. The plant is known for its small, glossy, dark green leaves and its bright berry-like fruit.
The plant typically grows to a height of 3-5 feet and has a spreading habit. The leaves are oval or egg-shaped, glossy, and dark green. The flowers are small, white, and star-shaped and are produced in clusters. The fruit is a small, round, berry-like and it turns from green to orange or red when it ripens.
Solanum pseudocapsicum is a popular ornamental plant, often grown for its colorful fruit and foliage. It is often used as a houseplant or in patio containers, but can also be grown outdoors in warm climates. The plant is easy to care, but is not tolerant to frost.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Solanaceae
Synonyms
Jerusalem cherry, Madeira winter cherry, Winter cherry, False Jerusalem cherry, Solanum, Solanum pseudocapsicum, Natal cherry
Common names
Solanum capsicastrum
ToxicityTo humans
All parts of the Solanum pseudocapsicum plant, including the leaves, fruit, and stem, contain solanocapsine, a toxic alkaloid.
Ingestion of the plant can cause stomach upset, vomiting, and diarrhea. In severe cases, it can cause hallucinations, convulsions, and even death. It is important to keep the plant out of reach of children and pets and to avoid eating any part of the plant.
If you or your children are showing signs of toxicity after ingesting the plant, it is important to seek professional care immediately.To pets
Ingestion of Solanum pseudocapsicum by animals can also cause toxic effects such as stomach upset, vomiting, and diarrhea.In addition, the plant can also cause neurological symptoms like disorientation, tremors, and seizures.
If a pet is showing signs of toxicity after ingesting the plant, it is important to seek veterinary care immediately. It's also important to keep the plant out of reach of pets and to monitor them if they have access to the plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
Up to 5 feet
Spread
Up to 5 feet
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
7
Native area
Central and South America
Benefits
General BenefitsAs an outdoor plant, Solanum pseudocapsicum can be used as a colorful addition to gardens, patios, and other outdoor spaces;
The plant can be used as a hedge or as a ground cover;
The ornamental fruit can be used in dried flower arrangements or as a colorful accent in a garden;
As a houseplant, it can be used to bring a touch of green to indoor spaces, and it can be grown in a container to decorate a patio or balcony.
Medical PropertiesAnalgesic properties: The leaves and fruits of Solanum pseudocapsicum have been traditionally used in some cultures as a pain reliever, particularly for headache and toothache.
Anti-inflammatory properties: The plant contains alkaloids and flavonoids that have been found to have anti-inflammatory effects, which may make it useful for treating conditions such as arthritis.
Antimicrobial properties: The plant has been found to have antimicrobial properties, which may make it useful for treating bacterial infections.
Anti-cancer properties: Some studies have suggested that Solanum pseudocapsicum may have anti-cancer properties, though more research is needed to confirm these findings.
However, it's important to note that Solanum pseudocapsicum can also be toxic if ingested, particularly the fruit, which can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and other symptoms. Therefore, it should not be used without proper supervision from a qualified healthcare professional.
Air-purifying QualitiesThere is limited research on the air-purifying qualities of Solanum pseudocapsicum.
Other UsesThe bright red berries of Solanum pseudocapsicum can be used as a natural dye for fabrics and textiles;
The leaves of Solanum pseudocapsicum is believed that can be crushed and applied as a natural insect repellent.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiAccording to Feng Shui:
The bright red berries are believed to bring good luck and prosperity when placed in the south sector of the home or office.
The plant's lush green leaves are believed to bring a sense of peace and calmness to a room and can be placed in areas where stress and tension are present.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityLeos are some of the most attractive people you’ll ever meet. Their charisma attracts people to them and their desirable physical appearance is enhanced by their bursting amount of self-confidence. A Leo’s overall warmth and cheerfulness are obvious signs that winter cherry is the plant for them. Its flashy colors are also directly reflective of a Leo’s passionate character and desire to embark on fun adventures.
Plant SymbolismPortuguese sailors first brought Christmas cherry to the island of Madeira and then on to Europe. It quickly became a status symbol amongst the upper classes, admired for its bright red, orange or yellow berry-like fruit and glossy, dark green leaves.
WaterSolanum pseudocapsicum should be watered when the soil is dry to the touch.
Water the plant thoroughly and allow the excess water to drain away. It is important to not over-water the plant as it may lead to root rot.
Typically, watering once a week is enough, but it may vary depending on the humidity and temperature of your environment.
LightSolanum pseudocapsicum prefers bright, indirect light. It can tolerate low light conditions, but it will do best in a spot that gets some morning or evening sun.
TemperatureSolanum pseudocapsicum prefers average room temperatures between 60-75°F. It can tolerate temperatures as low as 20°F but it will not do well in temperatures above 80°F.
PruningPruning can be done at any time of the year, but it is best done in the spring. Prune any dead or yellowing leaves and any stems that are crossing over or growing too tall. This will encourage bushier growth and a more attractive shape.
CleaningEvery few weeks
SoilSolanum pseudocapsicum prefers well-draining, fertile soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0.
A good quality, all-purpose potting soil with some perlite or sand added to improve drainage is suitable.
RepottingSolanum pseudocapsicum does not need to be repotted frequently. It can be repotted every 2-3 years or when the roots have outgrown the container.
It's best to repot during the spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Humidity & MistingSolanum pseudocapsicum prefers average humidity, but it can tolerate dry air.
If you live in an area with low humidity, you may need to increase humidity around the plant by placing a tray of water near it or by misting the leaves occasionally.
Suitable locationsIndoor
All year round
Outdoor
It is important to note that Solanum pseudocapsicum is not hardy and can only be grown in warm climates, it is best grown indoors.
But if you decided to grow the plant ountside choose the spot with well-draining, fertile soil.
Place the plant in a spot that gets some morning or evening sun.
Water the plant regularly, making sure not to over-water.
Solanum pseudocapsicum is not frost-tolerant and should be protected from frost.Hardiness zone
USDA 8 - 12
Life cycleThe plant begins its life cycle as a seed. The seed will germinate when it is planted in well-draining soil and is exposed to the appropriate temperature, light, and moisture conditions.
After germination, the seedling begins to grow leaves and stem. It will continue to grow and develop, forming a small shrub.
Solanum pseudocapsicum is a flowering plant that produces small white or yellow flowers. The flowers are followed by small, bright red berries. The berries produced by the plant are not edible.
Solanum pseudocapsicum is a perennial plant, it can live for many years but in general the plant live up to 10 years.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring - summer
By SEEDS:
The easiest and most common method of propagating Solanum pseudocapsicum is by planting seeds. The seeds can be planted in a well-draining soil and should be kept warm and moist until germination occurs.
By CUTTINGS:
Cuttings can be taken from the stem of an established plant. The cutting should be at least 3 inches long and should have at least one leaf node. The cutting should be planted in a well-draining soil and kept warm and moist until roots form.
By AIR LAYERING:
Air layering is a method where a stem is cut and wounded and a rooting hormone is applied to encourage roots to form, then the stem is wrapped with a moist material, and covered with a plastic bag to retain moisture. Once roots have formed, the stem can be cut and planted.
By DIVISION:
Solanum pseudocapsicum can be propagated through division, this is done by taking a mature plant and dividing the roots into smaller parts and replanting them.
PestsSpider mite, Mealybug, Aphid
DiseasesRoot Rot, Powdery mildew, Leaf spot
