Quito orange (Solanum quitoense)

Also known as: Narangillo, Golden fruit of the andes

Quito orange is a perennial shrub known for its year-round flowering and production of small fruits, often referred to as 'little oranges.' While it can quickly grow into a large, exotic-looking plant within a single season, it also contains toxic alkaloids, posing a risk if ingested. This plant is frequently used for ornamental purposes, but caution is advised due to its potential hazards.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of Quito orange

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Shrub

Plant Height

1.8 m

Spread

1.8 m

Leaf Color

Green Gray

Flower Size

3 cm to 4 cm

Flower Color

White Purple

Images of Quito orange

Quickly Identify Quito orange

Look for large, heart-shaped leaves with a fuzzy, purplish hue. The plant produces small white to purple flowers, and its fruit is round, green when immature, turning orange when ripe. The stems and leaves also have sharp spines.

Scientific Classification of Quito orange

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Solanales

Family

Nightshade

Genus

Nightshades

Species

Quito orange

Planting and Growing of Quito orange

Care Difficulty

Moderate

Watering Schedule

Every 8 days

Sunlight Requirements

Partial sun

Sunshine Duration

6-10 hours

Ideal Temperature

60-86℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Quito orange?

Solanum quitoense, also known as Naranjilla, requires a balanced watering approach where soil moisture is maintained steadily. Aim to provide around 500 ml of water per session, ensuring that the soil is moist but not waterlogged. The goal is to allow the top inch of soil to dry out slightly between watering while keeping the deeper root area consistently hydrated.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Quito orange? ›

What should I do if my Quito orange is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Quito orange? ›

How to save an overwatered Quito orange? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Quito orange?

Sunlight Requirements: Partial sun

Duration of light: 4 to 6 hours

Partial sun to full sun, ideally 4 to 6 hours of scattered light promotes healthy foliage and fruit development for Solanum quitoense.

What amount of sunlight is best for Solanum quitoense? ›

How can I ensure it's getting the right light? ›

What are the benefits of ideal lighting conditions? ›

More About Sunlight Requirements Techniques→

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Quito orange?

Ideal Temperature: 60 ~ 86℉

The ideal temperature range for Solanum quitoense is between 60°F and 86°F. This range provides the warm and consistent climate needed to support healthy growth and fruiting. Temperatures outside this range could lead to suboptimal growth conditions, affecting the plant's ability to thrive.

What Soil is Best for Quito orange?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam

Soil PH: 6 ~ 7.5

Solanum quitoense thrives in soil that retains moisture well. Such soils help prevent dehydration of the roots while ensuring consistent access to water, fostering healthy growth and fruit production. This plant demands nutrient-dense soils to flourish. A rich soil composition ensures a steady supply of essential minerals and nutrients, supporting robust foliage and bountiful fruiting. Although Solanum quitoense prefers moist conditions, the soil must still allow excess water to drain efficiently. This prevents root rot and other water-related diseases, ensuring the plant remains healthy.

How to Fertilize Quito orange?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Solanum quitoense, it's crucial to apply fertilizers with a balanced nutrient profile. When using liquid fertilizer, apply approximately 1 tablespoon per gallon of water. Use caution and ensure the quantity aligns with the plant size and container since over-fertilization can lead to nutrient burn.

How to Prune Quito orange?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer, Autumn

Begin by assessing the plant's structure. Look for branches that cross over each other, as well as dead or damaged limbs. Removing these will prevent potential growth issues. Focus on making cuts just above nodes (where leaves meet the stem) to encourage new shoots. Trim any branches that appear leggy or asymmetrical to improve the plant's form and balance. Prune to maintain an open center, improving airflow and sun exposure, vital for minimizing pest and disease risks. Regularly shaping the canopy ensures better distribution of resources and supports a healthier plant. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Quito orange plant?

Propagate Time: Early spring,Spring

Select seeds from a reputable source ensuring they're viable. Inspect the seeds for any signs of mold or damage to guarantee healthy germination.

Use a well-draining potting mix with a balance of soil, sand, and peat moss. Proper preparation of the medium ensures it retains moisture without waterlogging the seeds or cuttings.

Cut 4-6 inches of a healthy stem using sterilized shears. Make sure the cutting has at least a couple of leaves, but remove any lower leaves to prevent decay when placed in the soil.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot Quito orange plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 1-2 years

Repotning should be considered when you see roots emerging from the drainage holes, indicating that the current pot has become too small, or when the plant looks top-heavy and unstable. If growth has stagnated despite regular care, it's another clue that repotting can give the plant more room to breathe and grow.

Select a pot that is one to two inches larger in diameter than the current one. A pot too large might retain excess moisture, leading to root rot. Opt for a pot with ample drainage holes to prevent waterlogging, ensuring the health of your Solanum quitoense.

Pick a well-drained potting mix rich in organic matter. The soil should retain enough moisture to support lush growth but must drain excess water efficiently. This balance prevents root rot and encourages healthy plant development.

Toxicity

Ingestion, Contact

WARNING

The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.