Solanum pseudocapsicum

The Jerusalem cherry is a small to medium-sized, bushy, perennial evergreen shrub. It has dark green leaves and clusters of white star-shaped flowers, that appear in the summer. Red, yellow, or orange berry-like fruits appear in the fall and winter.  The fruit is about the size of a cherry, but it is inedible. It is cultivated as an ornamental and is frequently sold as a houseplant. Jerusalem cherry is a member of the Solanaceae or nightshade family which also includes tomatoes, potatoes, peppers, and eggplants. 

The plant is a native of Bolivia, Brazil, and the southern parts of South America. It is frequently found in warm subtropical or tropical areas. The plant has been introduced in the US, Europe, Asia, and Australia. It spreads rapidly from disturbed forests to natural areas and has become a widespread weed in some countries. The Jerusalem cherry is enjoyed as a houseplant because of its colorful berries during the winter months: however, if consumed, the berries are fatal to humans and pets.

The genus name, Solanum, is from the Latin word solamen, which means "comforting or soothing." The plant has many common names including Christmas cherry, Madeira cherry, and Winter cherry.

Jerusalem cherry prefers full sun in a sheltered location. It thrives in moist, well-drained, loamy soils with a neutral pH. If grown outside the plant must be brought in before the first frost.  The plant reproduces by seeds or stem cuttings. Each berry produces 50-100 seeds. The seeds are dispersed by birds in the wild. Birds appear to have a tolerance to the toxins of the plant. Outdoor plants are pollinated by the wind and insects. Indoor plants will require manual pollination. Resources suggest using a swab or small paintbrush to dab the stamens in the center of the flowers and then spread the pollen to the other flowers.

The plant stems are green and wiry. The leaves are glossy and elliptical to lanceolate in shape with wavy margins. The flowers are usually white and may appear solitary or in clusters. The brightly colored fruits are long-lasting through the winter months.

If ingested, the Jerusalem cherry is toxic to children, humans, cats, dogs, and horses. Gastrointestinal disturbances, seizures, respiratory depression, and shock may occur. Medical treatment should be obtained immediately if any part of the plant is ingested. Allergic skin reactions may also occur. It is best to wear protective clothing and gloves when handling the plant.

The Jerusalem cherry is an easy plant to grow and will add a pop of color to the interior of your home during the winter months. The plant may also be used outdoors as a container or patio plant during the summer months. Remember to keep the plant out of reach of small children and pets.

Seasons of interest:

Bloom:  Summer        Fruits:  Fall, Winter

Quick ID Hints:

• green, wiry, smooth, or sparsely hairy stems
• dark green elliptical to lanceolate, simple leaves with undulate margins
• tiny star-shaped white or light purple flowers appearing solitary or in clusters
• oval, berry-like fruits in colors of red, orange, or yellow that appear the fall and winter

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: The Jerusalem cherry may be susceptible to aphids and red spider mites. Gray mold can occur. Too much sun or water will cause leaf drop. Fruit will not be produced if there is a lack of pollination. Indoor plants will require manual pollination.