MON114 Naranjilla ( Solanum Quitoense )
Solanum quitoense, known commonly as naranjilla ("little orange") or lulo, is a tropical perennial shrub native to the northwestern Andes of South America. It is highly prized for its unique, tangy fruit and its large, ornamental foliage.
The fruit looks like a small orange but has a thick, leathery skin covered in fine, brown hairs (trichomes) that are rubbed off before eating. Inside, the pulp is bright green and juicy with a flavor often described as a refreshing, acidic blend of pineapple, lemon, and lime.
Beverages: The most popular use is for juice. In Colombia, it is the primary ingredient in lulada, a refreshing drink made with water, sugar, and ice.
Culinary: The pulp is used in jams, jellies, ice cream, and fermented fruit wines. In savory cooking, it can be added to sauces or meat stews for a tart kick.
Ornamental: Due to its massive, velvety leaves and exotic look, it is often grown as a conservatory or patio plant in cooler climates. Grows 5-10 feet tall outdoors in zones 9b and higher, but also can be grown in tubs in cooler climates.
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