Bitter apple (Solanum incanum)
Care, watering, light and tips for Bitter apple on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Solanaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Full sun
- Temperature: 10–35 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Bitter apple
Solanum incanum, commonly known as 'bitter-apple', is a thorny shrub from the Solanaceae family, native to Africa and Asia. It is characterized by its lobed leaves and round, intensely yellow to orange fruits when ripe, resembling small apples. It is an interesting plant for low-maintenance gardens in warm climates, although its fruits are inedible and toxic.
Native range
Africa and parts of Asia
Care tips
It requires full sun for optimal growth and thrives in well-drained soils, preferably sandy or rocky, with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH. This plant is drought-tolerant once established, so watering should be moderate, allowing the substrate to dry out completely between waterings. Avoid overwatering, as it is prone to root rot in consistently wet conditions. A common mistake is attempting to consume its fruits, which are toxic and not suitable for human consumption.
How to save a dying Bitter apple
- Warning signs
- Yellowing or wilting leaves, soft stems, small or prematurely dropped fruits. 🌿
- First aid
- Check drainage and soil moisture. If waterlogged, repot into fresh, dry soil. If dry, water deeply.
- What kills it
- Overwatering (root rot) or prolonged drought (dies of thirst). Also lack of direct sunlight.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, it's a resilient plant. If roots aren't completely rotted, there's hope with proper care.