Tree Tomatoes
The Tree Tomato - or tomato tree, or Tamarillo as it is also known - is not a tomato at all, but its egg-shaped red fruits are reminiscent of the tomatoes that we know and love. Tamarilloes are generally used in sweet dishes - although they can just as easily be used in savoury dishes too.
These perennial plants grow at a staggering rate and will fruit each autumn, through to winter, picking up where the tomato growing season ends.
Despite their common name, tree 'tomatoes' are not actually tomatoes at all! Perhaps the egg-shaped red fruits of this perennial plant are responsible for this misleading name often given to Solanum betaceum,- also known as a Tamarillo.
Tamarillos are native to the southern hemisphere, particularly New Zealand, where they are enjoyed more in sweet dishes than savoury. The tamarillo is perfect for use in jams, jellies, chutneys, stews, puddings or just simply eaten raw. As a member of the Solanum family, the tamarillo plant will produce pretty clusters of flowers similar to those on the potato plant, which will eventually self-pollinate and fruit.
Tamarillo plants will grow into woody 'tomato trees' at quite a staggering rate, with the perennial plants producing a good crop of fruits from autumn and well into winter - picking up where the 'true' tomato season ends. If you're keen to grow your own tamarillos, bear in mind that the vigorous growth of these plants mean that if not kept in check, the trees can reach up to 12 feet tall, with a spread of 8 feet! However, the good news is that they can be easily kept pruned down to a much more manageable height of around 6 feet.
Tamarillo Tree Tomato Plant
A perennial tomato with ruby red egg shaped fruits that are produced in late autumn and winter. Requires frost protection. Can be eaten raw, stewed or made in to jams and jellies.
Available Now
Supplied as pot grown plants approximately 4" (10 cm) tall.
Tamarillo Tree Tomato Seed
Not a tomato at all! Grows into a substantial tree that bears plum shaped fruits which are deep red in colour. More of a 'sweet' than a 'savoury'. Perennial in habit.
Available Now
Supplied as a packet of approximately 10 seeds.
