Litchi Tomato

Litchi Tomato (Solanum sisymbrifolium) is a fast-growing annual in the nightshade family, reaching around 110 cm tall with striking white flowers and small, red tomato-like fruits. The plant is densely thorny across stems and leaves, earning it dramatic common names like fire-and-ice plant and sticky nightshade. The berries are orange inside with an exotic flavour reminiscent of cherry and lychee. It thrives in full sun and warm conditions, and will self-sow freely in sheltered or greenhouse situations.

Growing

Start seeds indoors 8 weeks before outdoor temperatures stay reliably above 12 °C at night. Sow at 0.2 cm depth — seeds are light-dependent germinators, so press them into the surface and cover only barely. Germination requires soil temperatures of 25–30 °C and benefits from fluctuating temperatures; expect sprouts in 20–30 days. Transplant outdoors once night temperatures remain above 12 °C, spacing plants 60 cm apart in rows 100 cm apart.

Care

Water consistently but avoid waterlogging; the plant tolerates some drought once established. Feed with a balanced fertiliser every 2–3 weeks once flowering begins. The sprawling side branches are thorny and benefit from staking or tying to prevent sprawl. Wear gloves when handling — spines on stems and calyxes are sharp.

Harvest

Harvest when fruits turn fully red and the calyx begins to loosen slightly, indicating peak ripeness. The red outer skin splits to reveal orange interior flesh. Pick regularly to encourage continued fruiting. Handle with care due to the spiny calyx on each berry.

In the kitchen

Use the ripe berries fresh as a novelty fruit with a cherry-lychee flavour profile. Eat them raw out of hand, add to fruit salads, or use as a garnish. The fruits can also be cooked into jams, sauces, or compotes. Remove the spiny calyx entirely before eating.

Storing

Store freshly picked berries in the refrigerator for up to one week. For longer preservation, cook into jam or compote and seal in sterilised jars. Berries can also be frozen whole after removing the calyx; use within 6 months.