Tree Tomato
Cyphomandra betaceafam. Solanaceae
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Pl. C6BC — Cyphomandra betacea
Cyphomandra betaceaCyphomandra betaceaCyphomandra betaceaCyphomandra betaceaCyphomandra betaceaCyphomandra betaceaCyphomandra betaceaCyphomandra betaceaCyphomandra betaceaCyphomandra betaceaCyphomandra betaceaCyphomandra betaceaCyphomandra betaceaCyphomandra betacea
IOverview
Overview
Tree Tomato, scientifically known as Cyphomandra betacea, is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to the tropical regions of South America, including Argentina Northwest, Bolivia, Brazil North, Brazil South, Brazil Southeast, Brazil West-Central, Colombia, Ecuador, and Venezuela. This plant thrives in full sun and moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 8-11 and grows to a height of about 5 meters. Tree Tomato is valued for its edible fruit, which can be used fresh or processed into jams and preserves. Its distinctive feature includes the bright red or yellow fruit that ripens over several months, making it an ornamental addition to gardens as well.
Quick answers
What is Tree Tomato?
Tree Tomato, scientifically known as Cyphomandra betacea, is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to the tropical regions of South America, including Argentina Northwest, Bolivia, Brazil North, Brazil South, Brazil Southeast, Brazil West-Central, Colombia, Ecuador, and Venezuela.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Tree Tomato thrives in full sun and prefers moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 8-11 and can grow up to 5 meters tall. For successful cultivation, ensure the plant receives ample sunlight and maintains consistent moisture levels. Propagation can occur through seeds or cuttings.
Light
Full sun
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
8-11
Mature size
5.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Tree Tomato for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple, sunny spot and basic care for your Tree Tomato.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds or young plants, potting mix, containers or garden space.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring when the last frost has passed and temperatures are warm.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use well-draining soil with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5, ensuring containers have drainage holes.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Start seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before the last frost or directly plant young plants in the garden after danger of frost.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep soil moist, and place in a sunny spot. Avoid direct sunlight for the first few days.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun exposure, water when the top inch of soil feels dry, and fertilize every 4-6 weeks with a balanced fertilizer.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune to maintain shape and remove dead branches. Harvest fruits when they are fully colored but still firm.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, not providing enough sunlight, neglecting regular pruning, and waiting too long to harvest.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Fruit
Edible uses: The tree tomato fruit is edible and can be eaten raw or cooked. It is often used in jams, preserves, and sauces due to its tart flavor. The fruit can also be dried for later use. Skip the invention of specific recipes; focus on these basic preparation methods.
Other uses:Fragrance
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
11 native · 19 introduced
Distribution
11 native · 19 introducedDistribution across4 continents· 11 native· 19 introduced
Asia1 region
introduced (1)Myanmar
Americas7 regions
native (5)BoliviaColombiaEcuadorPeruVenezuela
introduced (2)HondurasJamaica
Africa3 regions
introduced (3)MadagascarMalawiMauritius
Oceania1 region
introduced (1)New Caledonia
Broader regions
native:Brazil West-Central, Windward Is., Brazil North, Brazil South, Brazil Southeast, Argentina Northwest
introduced:Gulf of Guinea Is., Jawa, KwaZulu-Natal, Marianas, Mexico Gulf, Mexico Northeast, Mexico Southeast, Mexico Southwest, New Guinea, New South Wales, New Zealand North, Niue
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Solanaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Solanaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
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Companion planting
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Growing zone
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