About this seed
Lulo, or naranjilla (Solanum quitoense), is a 1–2 m shrub with large velvety leaves veined in purple and round orange fruits 5–7 cm across with tangy green-yellow pulp. The packet holds 20 seeds.
Also known as: Lulo Fruit, Naranjilla (Ecuador), Lulo (Colombia), Lulo de Castilla and Quito orange.
Sowing
- Soak the seed for 24 hours.
- Sow in moist soil at 24–29 °C.
- Germination takes 2–4 weeks.
Climate and light
Lulo grows in warm conditions of about 15–30 °C and must be protected from frost. It takes partial to full sun, but in hot regions it does better with some shade. Use well-drained, nutrient-rich, slightly acidic soil and keep it evenly moist without waterlogging.
Fruit
The fruits form in clusters and ripen over several months. Their pulp is juicy and full of small seeds, with a citrus-like taste often compared to pineapple and lime; it is used in juices, smoothies and desserts. The plant is native to South America, particularly Ecuador and Colombia.
Containers
At 1–2 m it can be grown in a container, which also lets you move it under cover where frost is a risk.
What you get
One packet of 20 Solanum quitoense seeds. We do not state a germination percentage for this lot.
FAQ
Does lulo like full sun?
It takes partial to full sun, but in hot regions it benefits from partial shade.
Can it survive frost?
No. Protect it from frost; it grows well at about 15–30 °C.
