Another Solanum species that is a common Chinese New Year festive plant is Solanum mammosum. It is known via a range of common names which include titty fruit, cow’s udder and apple of Sodom and most of these stem from the interesting apperance of its fruits. The fruits of Solanum mammosum is an inverted pear shape where it is broader near the base and narrower near the tip of the fruit. There can be up to 5 protrusions growing near the base of the fruit.
This plant is native to South America and can be found growing in the naturalised state in Central America and the Caribbean. Because of its close relationship with the common eggplant and unique look of its fruit, the Chinese name of Solanum mammosum is known as ‘五角茄’ (wu jiao qie) which translates into ‘five-angled eggplant’. During Chinese New Year, nurserymen and vendors gave it a more auspicious sounding name called ‘五代同堂’ (wu dai tong tang) which translates into ‘five generations living harmoniously under one roof’, referring to togetherness of the family.
As a plant, Solanum mammosum grows as rather untidy, semi-woody, sprawling, perennial shrub which is sometimes grown as an annual. It can grow up to 1.5 m in height and features large, shallowly lobed, furry leaves that come with prominent spikes on both sides. Its branches and stems are also armed with thorns. There seems to be cultivars that are relatively thornless. Flowers are light pinkish purple flowers and borne in clusters and these develop into fruits which are green at first and turn bright golden yellow when ripe. Fruits are toxic and contain several seeds.
Because of the toxicity of its fruits due to the presence of solanine saponins, Solanum mammosum is mainly grown for ornamental purposes. The fruits are harvested when they are ripe and sold and displayed while still on the branches for interior decoration and floristry. The plant also has a few medicinal applications such as for the treatment of athlete’s foot, irritability and restlessness. A decoction of the leaves is employed as a remedy for diseases of the kidneys and bladder and to cleanse wounds while the seeds are used as a remedy for colds. The juice of the fruit shows some detergent activity and can be used for washing clothing.
Solanum mammosum prefers to be grown in a sunny, well drained spot. Soil should be kept moist by watering regularly and more often during hot and dry weather. Note that this plant is not too particular about soil requirements and it is most commonly propagated by seeds but stem-cuttings can be used. Because the toxicity of its fruits as well as the prickly nature of the plant, it is best to grow it in an area that is not accessible by young children.
