«Vila-Vila» - Organic Solanum sisymbriifolium Seeds

A rare and exotic edible fruit valued both in cooking and for ornamental purposes. Its native range is South America, where it occurs in Brazil, Paraguay, Argentina, and Uruguay, but the plant has also naturalized in Africa and Oceania.  

This sprawling, thorny herbaceous plant can reach 1–2 meters in height and up to 1.5 meters in width. Stems and leaves are covered with sharp spines.  

The fruits are small round berries, 1–2 cm in diameter, ripening from green to bright glossy red. They are enclosed in a spiny calyx that opens when fully ripe. Inside is juicy, translucent flesh with many small flat seeds—usually 50 to 100 or more per fruit.  

Ripe berries are edible, and the calyx is easily removed, though care must be taken to avoid contact with the spines during harvest. They can be eaten fresh, though the seeds are noticeable in texture. More often, the fruits are used for preserves, jams, jellies, sauces, and pies.  

The flavor of the lychee tomato is complex: it combines notes of cherry and tomato with a hint of currant or gooseberry. The profile is tart and slightly acidic, but when fully ripe it develops a pleasant sweetness. The aroma is mild, fruity, and not very pronounced.  

The plant is considered rare and unusual, not widely commercialized, but highly valued by collectors of rare crops and enthusiasts of unique culinary experiences.  

It is easy to grow from seed. It prefers sunny locations and regular watering, but does not tolerate frost. Seeds usually germinate within 2–4 weeks.  

Also known as sticky nightshade, red buffalo bur, fire-and-ice plant, lychee tomato, or Morelle de Balbis.