Origin
Solanum physalifolium Rusby var. nitidibaccatum, commonly known as Bitter or Ariñito, is a species of the Solanaceae family. It is native to South America, specifically in Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, and Peru.
Common Names
In addition to Bitter and Ariñito, Solanum physalifolium Rusby var. nitidibaccatum is known by several other common names, including Shimmery Nightshade, Glossy-berried Nightshade, and Coca de Raton.
Uses
The Bitter or Ariñito plant, although toxic in high doses, has traditionally been used by native populations in South America for medicinal purposes to treat snake bites, headaches, and respiratory illnesses. The plant is also used in ritual practices and as a hallucinogen.
General Appearance
The Bitter or Ariñito plant is a fast-growing and short-lived woody shrub that typically reaches a height of 1 to 2 meters. It is characterized by its small, ovate leaves with a velvety texture and its bell-shaped purple flowers, which bloom from spring to fall. In late summer, the plant produces small, smooth, and glossy black berries that resemble small tomatoes.
Light requirements
Solanum physalifolium Rusby var. nitidibaccatum requires full sun to thrive, receiving at least six hours of sunlight daily. In areas where temperatures can reach extremely high levels, it is advisable to provide partial shade during the hottest parts of the day.
Temperature requirements
The plant is native to the Andes and thrives in cooler temperatures. Its ideal temperature range lies between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit (15-27?). Temperatures that exceed 85? (29°C) may cause the plant to stop growing. On the other hand, frost tends to damage the plant, so it is important to protect it from extremely low temperatures.
Soil requirements
Solanum physalifolium Rusby var. nitidibaccatum prefers well-drained soils that are moist but not waterlogged. The soil should be rich in organic matter and nutrients, with a pH level ranging from 5.5 to 6.5. If the soil is too acidic or alkaline, it may inhibit the plant's growth. The addition of compost or aged manure can help improve the soil quality and drainage.
Cultivation Methods for Solanum physalifolium Rusby var. nitidibaccatum
Solanum physalifolium Rusby var. nitidibaccatum is an Andean fruit plant related to the tomato family, and its cultivation is similar to that of tomatoes. The plant prefers a warm climate with plenty of sunlight and well-draining soil. It thrives in areas with pH levels ranging from 5.5 to 6.8, making it ideal for slightly acidic soils.
When planting, ensure that each seed is placed half an inch deep in the soil and about two feet away from each other. The plant can also be cultivated through cuttings, with a length of about 8 inches of the stem with 6-7 leaves intact. The cuttings should be planted in a mixture of peat moss and sand and keep the soil moist. After about two weeks, the plant will establish enough roots for transplanting.
Watering Needs
Solanum physalifolium Rusby var. nitidibaccatum requires consistent watering as it has shallow roots. However, excess water will rot the roots and stimulate the growth of fungus. Watering every 2-3 days during the hot dry months and every 4-5 days in cooler months is ideal. Watering should be done early in the morning or late in the afternoon to prevent evaporation losses.
Fertilization
To achieve optimal growth, the plant needs fertile soil and sufficient nutrients. Solanum physalifolium Rusby var. nitidibaccatum requires heavy feeding during the growing season, with the use of fertilizers such as a granular fertilizer, manure, or compost. Applying a liquid fertilizer weekly during the growing season enhances the plant's productivity, especially when it starts fruiting.
The application of high nitrogen fertilizer is not recommended during the fruiting period since it leads to leafy growth rather than fruit development.
Pruning
Pruning helps to stimulate growth and fruit production in Solanum physalifolium Rusby var. nitidibaccatum. The plant can grow up to 6 meters high, and pruning should be done to maintain a manageable size. Remove the lower leaves and any branches that do not produce fruits. The plant's central stem should be pruned and topped to encourage branching and the growth of more fruiting stems.
Pruning should be done during the growing season, and proper sanitation practices, such as cleaning pruning equipment, should be observed to prevent the spread of disease between plants.
Propagation of Solanum physalifolium Rusby var. nitidibaccatum (Bitter) Edmonds
Solanum physalifolium Rusby var. nitidibaccatum (Bitter) Edmonds can be propagated through several methods that include seed propagation, stem cuttings, and division.
Seed propagation
The easiest way to propagate Solanum physalifolium Rusby var. nitidibaccatum (Bitter) Edmonds is through seeds. The seeds can be sown in a well-draining potting mix and kept in a warm environment with indirect sunlight. The seeds will germinate within 7-14 days.
Stem cuttings
Stem cuttings can also be used to propagate Solanum physalifolium Rusby var. nitidibaccatum (Bitter) Edmonds. The stem cuttings should be taken from a healthy plant and planted in a well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil moist and place the pot in indirect sunlight until roots emerge.
Division
Division can be done to propagate Solanum physalifolium Rusby var. nitidibaccatum (Bitter) Edmonds. This method involves dividing the plant into several smaller plants and planting them in separate pots with fresh potting mix. Each division should have a healthy root system.
Disease Management
Solanum physalifolium var. nitidibaccatum is susceptible to various diseases that impact its growth and productivity. Some of the common diseases that can affect this plant include:
- Verticillium Wilt: This is a fungal disease that causes the leaves to yellow and the plant to wilt. It is transmitted through seeds, soil, and infected plant debris. To manage Verticillium wilt, rotate the crop, remove infected plant debris and avoid planting susceptible crops in the affected soil for several years.
- Phytophthora Root Rot: This is a soil-borne fungal disease that causes the plant to wilt. It is common in wet soils and can be managed by improving soil drainage and planting in well-draining soils.
- Bacterial Spot: This is a bacterial disease that causes spots on the leaves and fruits. It is transmitted through moisture and can be managed by applying copper-based fungicides at the early stages of infection and practicing crop rotation.
Pest Management
Solanum physalifolium var. nitidibaccatum is also susceptible to various pests that can cause significant damage to the plant. Some of the common pests that can affect this plant include:
- Colorado Potato Beetle: This is a common pest that feeds on the leaves of the plant. It is managed by handpicking the beetles and their larvae, applying insecticidal soap or neem oil, and rotating the crop.
- Greenhouse Whitefly: This is an indoor pest that affects the growth of the plant. It can be managed by practicing good hygiene in the greenhouse and using insecticidal soap or neem oil to control the infestation.
- Aphids: These small insects feed on the sap of the plant and can cause stunted growth and deformation of leaves. They can be managed by applying insecticidal soap or neem oil and introducing predators such as ladybugs to the garden.
