Solanaceae
Lycopersicon esculentum
Tomato · Nyanya
H
Not currently in the nursery
We can propagate most native species on request — get in touch to discuss timeline and quantity.
About
This is an annual or short-lived perennial herb cultivated for its edible fruit. It features soft, often hairy stems and small yellow flowers that develop into succulent berries, which vary widely in size, shape, and colour upon ripening to red, yellow, or other hues. All green parts of the plant are considered poisonous.
Where it works in Kilifi
Thrives in full sun, requiring 8-10 hours of direct sunlight daily. It prefers fertile, well-drained, moist, loamy soils with a pH between 5.5 and 7.0. Ideal for edible gardens, container planting, or as part of a pollinator-friendly landscape, with plants spaced 40-60 cm apart in rows 75-100 cm apart, and requiring staking or trellising for support.
Growing notes
This plant exhibits a very fast growth rate and requires consistent moisture, ideally with deep watering once or twice a week, avoiding overhead irrigation to prevent foliage diseases. It is sensitive to frost but can be a perennial in frost-free tropical climates. Monitor for common pests and diseases, implementing crop rotation and good sanitation practices.
Sources
Researched with web grounding from: gardensonline.com.au, pfaf.org, ncsu.edu, wikipedia.org, herbgarden.co.za, malawiflora.com. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.