Current tomato (Solanum pimpinellifolium)
Care, watering, light and tips for Current tomato on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Solanaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 3 days
- Light: Full sun
- Temperature: 10–35 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Current tomato
Solanum pimpinellifolium, commonly known as Currant Tomato or Johannisbeertomate, is a wild tomato species valued for its tiny, currant-sized red fruits that grow in clusters. It's a vigorous, indeterminate, and highly productive plant, ideal for home gardens or for adding a rustic, edible touch to balconies and patios. Its small, sweet tomatoes are perfect for salads or as a snack.
Native range
South America, particularly Peru and Ecuador
Care tips
It requires full sun (at least 6-8 hours daily) for optimal fruiting. Watering should be regular and consistent, avoiding both waterlogging and extreme drought, which can cause fruit cracking. It prefers fertile, well-draining soils rich in organic matter. A common mistake is not providing adequate support, as its indeterminate growth can become unmanageable without stakes or trellises.
How to save a dying Current tomato
- Warning signs
- Yellowish or pale leaves, stunted growth, weak or wilting stems. Small or absent fruits.
- First aid
- Check watering, ensure well-draining, moist (not waterlogged) soil. Provide support for weak stems.
- What kills it
- Overwatering causing root rot. Also, lack of direct sunlight or adequate nutrients.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if root rot is not severe or damage from lack of light/nutrients is recent. Act quickly.