Tree tomato (Cyphomandra betacea)
Cyphomandra betacea, the Tree tomato, is a fast-growing sub-tropical evergreen shrub valued for its showy, edible fruit in frost-free climates.
Complete Plant Information
Overview
The Tree tomato (Cyphomandra betacea) is a striking, fast-growing, semi-woody evergreen shrub perfect for subtropical landscapes where frost is not a serious concern. Its structure lends a tropical feel with large, ovate leaves and, most notably, its unique, edible, tomato-like fruit often known by the commercial name tamarillo. This member of the Solanaceae family offers both ornamental appeal and culinary rewards.
Gardeners value Cyphomandra betacea for its rapid growth and the visual interest provided by its prolific fruiting habit. While it exhibits a treelike form, it remains relatively manageable in height, providing structure without excessive bulk. Optimal performance for the Tree tomato occurs in humid climates where temperatures remain consistently above 45 degrees F.
Beyond the fruit, the large, softly hairy foliage provides excellent screening and structure in the garden. Although typically short-lived (4-6 years), its ease of propagation from seed makes maintaining a supply simple. Consider Cyphomandra betacea when seeking exotic texture and a unique harvest in USDA Zones 10 and 11.
Fast Facts
- Plant Family: Solanaceae
- Plant Type: Broadleaf evergreen
- Native Range: Peru, Brazil
- Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 10-11
- Size at Maturity:
- Height: 10-15 ft
- Spread: 6-8 ft
- Bloom Time: April to May
- Bloom Description: Pinkish-white
- Sun Exposure: Full sun to part shade
- Water Needs: Medium
- Maintenance Level: Medium
How to Grow
The Tree tomato thrives when planted in organically rich, fertile, well-drained soils. For the tallest growth, choose a location receiving full sun, though part shade is tolerated. Because Cyphomandra betacea is shallow-rooted, protection from strong winds is crucial to prevent mechanical damage. If growing near the northern edge of its hardiness limits, site the plant near the south side of a structure, perhaps under eaves.
Water needs are medium; ensure the soil remains well-drained, as overly moist conditions are detrimental to this species. Plants go semi-dormant during winter, requiring less maintenance then. While naturalization suggests they tolerate minor frost (resulting in leaf drop and minor branch dieback), freezing temperatures will kill seedlings in their first year, and commercial cultivation demands frost-free climates.
Cyphomandra betacea is surprisingly easy to establish from seed. Given their relatively short lifespan of 4 to 6 years, gardeners should plan for replacement stock or succession planting to ensure a continuous supply of this subtropical fruit. No staking is required unless environmental factors cause undue stress.
Landscape Uses
The structural shape and large leaves of the Tree tomato make it an excellent specimen plant to introduce bold, exotic texture into the landscape, especially where humidity supports robust growth. While primarily grown for its fruit in suitable tropical and subtropical regions, its ornamental value alone justifies its inclusion. Use it near patios or entryways where its foliage and fragrant spring flowers can be appreciated up close.
For edible landscaping purposes, Cyphomandra betacea can function as a fast-growing screen or background element, complementing lower-growing vegetables, provided they receive similar sun and soil conditions. Since the fruit requires preparation (peeling the skin is necessary), plant it where harvesting and processing are convenient. Due to its subtropical nature, container culture is an option for moving it indoors or into protected areas during marginal winter weather outside Zone 10.
Standout Features
Flower Qualities
- Showy
- Fragrant
Fruit Qualities
- Showy
- Edible
Noteworthy Characteristics
Cyphomandra betacea, commonly known as tamarillo or tree tomato, is a semi-woody, shallow-rooted, sub-tropical evergreen shrub with a treelike form that typically grows rapidly to 10-15’ tall and features large edible tomato-like fruit on plants clothed with large ovate green leaves. Belonging to the nightshade family, its fragrant, pinkish-white flowers appear in spring, followed by egg-shaped fruits that mature from gray-green to dull red. Gardeners should note that fruit requires skin removal, often achieved by blanching, before consumption in salads, sauces, or jams.
Tolerances
- Needs protection from strong winds due to being shallow-rooted.
Potential Problems
The Tree tomato generally exhibits few serious insect or disease issues, making it a relatively low-worrry crop in the right climate. However, watch for common garden pests such as slugs, snails, and whitefly, with aphids sometimes appearing as well. In certain regions, fruit flies may target the developing fruit, requiring protective measures.
Pest management should also include monitoring for nematodes in the soil. Be highly vigilant regarding fungal issues, particularly powdery mildew, which can become a significant disease problem for Cyphomandra betacea. Furthermore, this species is susceptible to viral diseases like cucumber mosaic virus and potato virus, necessitating the use of disease-free starting material.
Frequently Asked Questions
What hardiness zones is Tree tomato suitable for?
The Tree tomato, Cyphomandra betacea, is winter hardy only to USDA Zones 10 and 11, requiring temperatures that do not dip below 45 degrees F for reliable perennial growth.
How large does Tree tomato grow?
This plant typically matures to a height of 10 to 15 feet with a spread between 6 and 8 feet, although it can reach 25 feet in ideal, frost-free tropical climates.
What sun exposure does Tree tomato need?
For best overall health and tallest growth, Cyphomandra betacea prefers full sun, but it successfully adapts to locations offering part shade.
When does Tree tomato bloom?
The fragrant, pinkish-white flowers of the Tree tomato appear relatively early in the season, typically from April to May.
Conclusion
The Cyphomandra betacea, or Tree tomato, offers gardeners a unique combination of subtropical ornamental structure and edible harvest. Its fragrant spring blooms and substantial fruit make it a standout in managed tropical environments. Before planting, verify that your local climate falls within USDA Zones 10 or 11, as protection from frost determines the long-term success of this fascinating plant.
Propagation Tips
Growing Cyphomandra betacea is often initiated from seed, which is reported as easy for home gardeners. Since seedlings are highly vulnerable to frost, starting seeds indoors well before the last expected frost date is advisable, especially in marginal zones. Once established outdoors, the plant tends to be short-lived, making the regular production of new seedlings for succession planting a standard practice.
While the primary method is seed, propagation via cuttings may also be attempted, though less commonly discussed for this species. Utilizing semi-hardwood cuttings taken from healthy parent plants and placed under mist or strong bottom heat can result in rooting, offering a way to clone desirable fruit characteristics instantly.
Companion Planting
Because the Tree tomato performs best in well-drained, richly organic soils, companion planting should focus on improving soil structure and deterring common pests. Planting strong-smelling herbs nearby, like Basil (another Solanaceae family member), can sometimes help manage general garden insect confusion, though specific pest issues like fruit flies may require targeted exclusion netting.
Avoid planting Cyphomandra betacea too closely with other nightshades if viral diseases are present in your area, as this reduces the spread of cucumber mosaic virus and potato virus that affect this group. Focus on companions that enjoy consistent moisture but excellent drainage, such as ginger or certain tender culinary herbs, to create a balanced understory planting.
