Jerusalem Cherry (Solanum pseudocapsicum): Festive Winter Berries—But Toxic!

Botanical Name: Solanum pseudocapsicum

Loaded with brightly colored berries from fall through winter, Jerusalem Cherry is a favorite seasonal ornamental. White star-shaped flowers appear in summer, followed by round fruits that transition from green to yellow, orange, and finally deep red—providing months of decorative color.

Important: Despite their cherry-tomato appearance, the berries are poisonous and should never be eaten. Keep plants away from children and pets.

Seasonal Care Cycle

Let the Sun Shine In

Jerusalem Cherry needs direct sun to flower and fruit well. It makes an excellent patio plant in summer but must come indoors before autumn temperatures drop—this South American native is frost-tender.

Give It a Rest

After the berries lose their appeal, cut stems back by half. Reduce watering (but don't let soil dry completely) and place the plant in a cool spot around 60°F (16°C). In late spring, return it to a sunny window or move outdoors after the last frost, then resume normal care.

Reluctant Bloomer?

Plants that fail to bloom usually lack sufficient light. The cool rest followed by a warm, sunny growing season typically triggers flowering. Fertilize regularly during active growth. If flowers appear but no berries form, the plant likely needs hand-pollination.

How to Pollinate: Outdoors, wind and insects transfer pollen. Indoors, use a small clean paintbrush to dab the stamens in the center of each flower, moving from bloom to bloom to spread pollen.

Repotting & Pest Control

Repot root-bound plants in spring, moving up just one pot size. Use a container with drainage holes to prevent root rot.

Watch for aphids, whiteflies, and spider mites. Daily misting with tepid water helps deter spider mites, which thrive in hot, dry conditions. Neem oil is an effective organic treatment for most pests.

Jerusalem Cherry Care Quick Reference

• Origin: Brazil
• Height: 1–2 ft (30–60 cm)
• Light: Bright light to full sun
• Water: Keep soil evenly moist; reduce in spring during rest period
• Humidity: Average to moderate. Mist daily in summer; use a pebble tray. Keep away from heat/AC vents—dry air causes berries to shrivel and drop.
• Temperature: 60–75°F (16–24°C). Tolerates summer heat but not frost. Cool fall/winter temperatures prolong berry display.
• Soil: Any good potting mix
• Fertilizer: Feed monthly spring through fall with tomato fertilizer
• Propagation: Stem cuttings in spring (root in moist mix) or seeds from ripe fruits sown in early spring