25 Tamarillo Seeds A.k.a.tree Tomato Organic, Non-gmo Seeds Tamarillo Solanum betaceum is a small tree or shrub in the flowering plant family Solanaceae. It is best known as the species that bears the tamarillo, an egg-shaped edible fruit. It is also known as the tree tomato, or tamamoro. TREE TOMATO Cyphomandra betacea a.k.a. Tamarillo Although it looks much like a medium-sized tomato, the tree tomato is not a true tomato. Tasting somewhat like a tomato, it is usually eaten with sugar or boiled to make a popular and refreshing drink. Growing Sun Provide a warm, sheltered sunny position. Wind Protect from the wind as these plants are shallow rooted. Not salt tolerant. Climate Frost tender. Light frosts will naturally prune your tree. Tamarillos need plenty of water as the huge soft leaves transpire rapidly. Soil Any well drained site with good moisture content and high in organic matter. Planting Choose a sheltered position with protection from strong winds and hard frosts. Incorporate blood and bone at planting. Fertiliser Apply three applications of low nitrogen NPK fertiliser during the growing season. One before pruning, second one month later and the third in February to help fruit development. Pruning Once your plant reaches 1 metre tall take the tip out to encourage branching and stopping the plant growing too tall so you can not reach the fruit. Frosts will naturally prune your tree. After the frost, remove old and dead wood. In areas of no frosts you will need to manually prune back growth to prevent over crowding. Always remember fruit is formed on the new spring growth, therefore a hard prune will maintain desired shape, size and maximise next seasons fruit.