Litchi Tomato Seeds

Litchi Tomato Seeds – 10 Fresh Seeds

Litchi Tomato (Solanum sisymbriifolium) is an unusual South American member of the nightshade family, grown for its striking prickly plants, attractive white flowers and unusual bright red edible fruits.

Despite the name, it is not a true tomato, although it is closely related and belongs to the same Solanum genus. Plants are vigorous and bushy, typically reaching around 1–1.5 metres tall, with deeply lobed leaves, sticky hairs and numerous sharp prickles along the stems and foliage.

Throughout summer the plants produce clusters of attractive white to pale blue star-shaped flowers, followed by small fruits enclosed inside a dramatic spiny green husk. As the fruit ripens, the husk opens to reveal a glossy bright red berry.

The fully ripe fruits are edible and have an unusual flavour often described as somewhere between cherry, tomato and tart berry fruit. They can be eaten fresh when fully ripe or used in jams, chutneys, sauces and desserts. The fruit should be harvested only when completely ripe and readily separates from the plant.

Litchi Tomato is usually grown as an annual in the UK, although botanically it is a tender perennial. Give plants plenty of sun, warmth and space to develop. Because of the formidable prickles, it is best positioned somewhere it will not be brushed against regularly.

An excellent choice for anyone who enjoys rare vegetables, unusual edible plants and botanical curiosities.

Botanical Name: Solanum sisymbriifolium
Common Names: Litchi Tomato, Sticky Nightshade, Morelle de Balbis
Family: Solanaceae
Origin: South America
Plant Height: Approx. 1–1.5m
Fruit Colour: Green → Bright Red
Fruit Size: Small berry / cherry-sized
Flavour: Fruity, tart, cherry-like with tomato notes
Habit: Bushy, vigorous and very prickly
Position: Full sun / sheltered position
Seeds: [your seed count]