Another ornamental crop harvested for its attractive fruit-bearing stems, this species is a relative of eggplant, and shares some of its diseases and insect pests.
Crop is raised from seeds in 72- to 128-cell trays.
Seed does not require light for germination, and should be covered with 1/4 in. of medium.
Transplant growth duration is about 6 weeks.
Similar to ornamental pepper, the crop is mature in about 4 months after transplanting in a high tunnel.
At a 12 x 12 in. spacing, plants will have a stem length of 30 in., and will require staking or support to prevent bending down of the branches.
Plants are attractive to spider mites, which can cause defoliation unless controlled.
Stem yields are similar when pinched as when left unpinched.
We have tested only two varieties so far: a spiny, earlier variety with relatively thin, dark-red stems and orange fruits, and a sturdier, later spineless variety with green stems and darker red fruits.
Plants are grown until the fruits are fully colored, and then harvested either with fruit attached, or the fruits harvested and used separately as ‘miniature pumpkins’.
Defoliation is easier than with ornamental pepper because there are fewer, larger leaves.
Dried fruits retain color and shape for several months.