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Solanum quitoense facts for kids

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Solanum quitoense
Lulo.jpg
Whole and transversely-cut fruit
Scientific classification
Genus:
Solanum
Species:
quitoense

Solanum quitoense, known as Naranjilla ( "little orange") in Ecuador, Costa Rica, and Panama and as Lulo ( from Quechua) in Colombia, is a tropical perennial plant from northwestern Colombia. The specific name for this species of nightshade means "from Quito."

The lulo plant is attractive, with large elongated heart- or oval-shaped leaves up to 45 cm in length. The leaves and stems of the plant are covered in short purple hairs. Naranjilla are delicate plants and must be protected from strong winds and direct sunlight. They grow best in partial shade.

The fruit has a citrus flavour, sometimes described as a combination of rhubarb and lime. The juice of the naranjilla is green and is often used as a juice or for a drink called lulada.

Solanum quitoense flower 5
The flower of Solanum quitoense.

Agriculture

The naranjilla has been proposed as a new flavoring for the global food industry, but it fares poorly in large-scale cultivation, presenting an obstacle to its wider use. Its fruit, like tomatoes, is easily damaged when ripe, so is usually harvested unripe. The fruits are found at markets. It is common for locals to make beverages by adding sugar and water to the freshly squeezed fruits.

Images for kids

See also

Kids robot.svg In Spanish: Solanum quitoense para niños

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