Winter cherry (Solanum capsicastrum) – Indoor Plants

Winter cherry (Solanum capsicastrum) is an ornamental, evergreen perennial indoor houseplant. It is a small, bushy, upright, evergreen shrub that is usually grown up to 12 to 24 inches tall and wide. The dark green leaves with waved edges grow to approximatively 2 inches long. The majority of the stems grow in an upwards fashion with fine hairs along the outer edge. Very white or whitish small star-shaped flowers bloom during summer, followed by berries that look just like small tomatoes. In fact, they may even taste similar to tomatoes, but they’re toxic when eaten. Berries begin green in color, then turn yellowish, orange and red, and are the main attraction rather than the tiny blossoms. Blossoms last until just before winter and the berries can last for months after the festive holiday period. Keep the berries away from children. Ingestion may result in mild poisoning, but it is generally not life-threatening. It might cause gastric problems, including vomiting and gastroenteritis. They are also very poisonous to dogs, cats and some birds.

Scientific Name: Solanum capsicastrum.
Common Names: Winter cherry, Jerusalem cherry.

How to grow and maintain Winter cherry (Solanum capsicastrum):

Light:
It thrives well in bright light, and some direct sunlight but not too much of direct sunlight. Place your winter cherry plant where it will get a few hours of direct sun each day.

Soil:
It grows best in well-drained, any potting mix

Water:
Water your plant regularly during the growing season and always keep the soil evenly moist but never allow your plant to sit in water. You can allow the topsoil to become slightly dry between each watering. Reduce watering in spring, when the plant is resting.

Temperature:
It prefers average room temperatures between 60°F – 75°F / 16°C – 24°C and 50°F – 60°F (10°C – 15°C) during winter. Avoid placing the plant near cold drafts.

Fertilizer:
Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer once a month until the berries have fallen. Allow some time for rest (late winter-spring) without manure and start fertilizing again when new bloom buds appear.

Pruning:
Prune stems back to approximately half their length, late winter. This will allow new growth and keep the plant well trimmed for the following growing season.

Propagation:
Winter cherry can be easily propagated by seed or by stem cuttings. Take stem cuttings in spring and root them in moist potting mix. Gather seeds from ripe fruits and sow in early spring.

Pests and Diseases:
It has no serious pest or disease problems. Winter cherry is sometimes infested by aphids, whiteflies or spider mites.