Alien Invasives

Jerusalem Cherry (Solanum pseudocapsium)

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07 October 2016

Jerusalem Cherry (Solanum pseudocapsium)

The Jerusalem Cherry is an erect, bushy, evergreen shrub, often grown as a winter-fruiting annual. It has wavy-margined, elliptical leaves, which are glossy and dark green. In summer, it bears white flowers similar to those of tomatoes or peppers. These are followed by long-lasting, spherical red, yellow or orange-red fruit.

Other names
False Jerusalem Cherry, Madeira Cherry, Madeira Winter Cherry, Winter Cherry (English)
Invasive status
NEMBA Category 1b

Jerusalem Cherry
Originally from
Peru, South America
Where is it a problem?
Mpumalanga, Free State, KwaZulu-Natal, Eastern Cape and Western Cape
How does it spread?
Seeds are dispersed by birds and other animals that eat the fruit
Why is it a problem?
It has the capacity to invade and transform areas by displacing existing indigenous plant and leaving the area open to soil erosion. It can also form dense stands in open areas and cutover shrub and forest land. It is poisonous to livestock and humans.
Uses
Ornamental and medicinal uses

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