Apple of Sodom (Solanum linnaeanum H.P.)

Apple of Sodom ( Solanum linnaeanum Hepper & P.-ML Jaeger, 1986): this interesting solanaceous plant originates from South Africa but is now naturalized throughout the coastal areas of Italy. It is particularly common in the Gargano area, where it forms impenetrable hedges with other species. The small fruit, about 3 cm in diameter, closely resembles more ancestral eggplants such as the Asian green ones. We recommend it for its botanical interest; in fact, its high solanine content makes it toxic to humans. The plant has an erect shrub-like growth, reaching a meter in height with thorny branches that are always laden with fruit and flowers from June to November. The former are a beautiful green streaked with white, the latter practically identical to those of eggplants. The dark green, crested leaves contrast with the yellow fruits (when ripe) and give it a particularly decorative appearance. Grown in a pot and protected from winter frost, it survives for several years but can easily be treated as an annual. For more experienced growers, it can be used as an excellent rootstock for Solanaceae (eggplants in particular). It is sown in spring and will survive in open ground until the first frost. Very low water requirements, making it suitable for succulent or Mediterranean gardens.