Also known as Mataserrano · Melon Shrub · Melon-Pear
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Requires full sun for at least 6-8 hours daily for optimal growth and fruit production.
100% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist, but avoid waterlogging. Water deeply when the topsoil is dry.
80% intensity
During growth and fruiting
Well-drained, fertile loam with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.0).
50% intensity
Thrives in warm temperatures, ideally between 18-25 °C. Protect from frost.
80% intensity
Outdoor, Greenhouse
50% intensity
Fertilize regularly during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer, switching to higher P/K during fruiting.
80% intensity
Spring to Autumn
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 2/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 3/5 intensity |
| Edible | Yes |
Ripe fruits are edible. Unripe fruits, leaves, and stems contain solanine, which can cause mild gastrointestinal upset if ingested.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Pepino plants require consistent moisture, especially during flowering and fruiting. Water deeply when the top few centimeters of soil feel dry, ensuring good drainage to prevent root rot.
Avoid overhead watering to minimize fungal diseases. Reduce watering slightly during cooler periods or if growth slows.
Prune to maintain shape, improve air circulation, and encourage fruit production. Pinch back growing tips to promote bushier growth. Remove any dead, diseased, or weak stems.
Support heavy fruit loads with stakes or trellises to prevent branches from breaking.
Pepino can be propagated easily from semi-hardwood stem cuttings. Take 10-15 cm cuttings, remove lower leaves, and root in moist potting mix or water.
Seeds can also be used, but cuttings are preferred for maintaining cultivar characteristics.
Repot young plants into larger containers as they grow, typically once a year for container-grown plants. Choose a pot only slightly larger than the current one to avoid overwatering.
Refresh the potting mix and ensure good drainage.
Identify plants like this with ePlant AI
Snap a photo to get care tips and match similar species on the go.
Photos of Pepino (Solanum muricatum)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
