Lulo (Solanum quitoense)

Lulo (Solanum quitoense): a much-loved South American fruit (berry), also known as naranjilla (little orange), with extraordinary nutritional qualities and a delicious flavour.
It is used in many ways, the most popular is certainly the juice, which provides a significant quantity of vitamins, some present in large quantities: B1, B3, B5, B6, C, E, A.
Cultivation is moderately complex: it fears frost and intense heat, avoid exposure to full sun, and also loves humidity, keeping the soil always moist. To grow it as a perennial, it will be necessary to cover it with non-woven fabric in the winter or bring it back to a protected environment or indoors if in a pot.
It can also be grown directly in the ground as an annual, but we recommend keeping it in a pot the first year, and then transplanting it, if conditions permit, in the second year.
The plant has a bushy habit, reaching 2.5 metres in height, and its large leaves have thorns.
Production is massive, around 150 fruits per plant per year for about 4 years, then the plant must be replaced.
For those who love grafting, you can reduce the water requirement and strengthen the plant by using Solanum torvum as a rootstock.
The flavor is slightly tart and sweet, fresh. Besides juice, it's also ideal for compote, ice cream, or even as an addition to cocktails. While not as complicated as mate because it's easy to germinate, this plant requires care. Buy it if you're an expert or have the time to dedicate to it. It'll certainly provide a learning environment and produce fruits that will get people talking.