Pepino

Solanum muricatum

Information from the seed producer: A perennial plant, grown as an annual in our climate.Its limp, often trailing stems are adorned with subtly fragrant flowers and decorative, edible fruits.Weighing 100–300 g, the berries are oval or heart-shaped and cream-yellow in color with purple or reddish-brown streaks.They are rich in iodine and vitamin C.The flesh of a ripe fruit is soft, juicy, and aromatic, with a flavor reminiscent of melon or mango.Once peeled, these fruits are perfect for all kinds of meals, from desserts to main courses.They can be frozen, dried, candied, or used to make jellies.Ripe fruit can be stored at room temperature for 3–4 months. Cultivation: Sow seeds in March under cover, on trays, or in pots. At a temperature of 18–24 degrees C, germination occurs after 2–3 weeks.Plant perennials in their permanent locations in the second half of May.It is best to grow them similarly to tall tomato plants, using a stake to train the plant to have 2–3 main shoots and removing the side shoots.Grow in sunny, wind-protected locations or under cover, in fertile, not overly dry soil.It is also recommended for growing in hanging containers and balcony planters.