How to identify Tropical soda apple (Solanum viarum)
Tropical soda apple is characterized by its robust and invasive shrub form. It bears distinctive leaves with a broad ovate shape and deep lobes, typically reaching 6 inches (15 cm) in length. The leaves showcase prominent venation and are a textured, deep green in hue. Small white or yellowish-tinged flowers protrude from the foliage, which later give way to spherical yellow-green fruits about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter, resembling small apples. The plant has a rugged stem, armed with thorns that can reach up to 2 inches (5 cm) in length.
Lifespan: Perennial
Plant Type: Shrub
Leaf Type: Semi-evergreen
Large, lobed leaves with deep veins, 4-8 inches (10-20 cm) long.
Thorn-covered stems, maturing from green to brown, up to 0.5 inches (1.3 cm) thick.
Spherical fruits, mottled green to yellow, containing around 400 seeds.
Persistent clusters of small, white star-shaped flowers, 0.5 inches (1.27 cm) wide.
Robust shrub form with textured, dark green leaves and small, apple-like fruits.
The leaves of tropical soda apple are characterized by their large, flat, and lobed shape, being broadly ovate and measuring 4-8 inches (10-20 cm) in length by 2-6 inches (5-15 cm) in width. They are densely hairy, with prickles along the veins. The edges of the leaves are wavy. The upper surface is dark green, while the underside is lighter in color, contributing to their distinctive appearance.
Tropical soda apple features delicate 5-petaled white flowers that are approximately 0.5 inches (1.27 cm) in diameter. These blossoms form in clusters and are nearly ever-present throughout the year. The white petals are arranged symmetrically, creating a star-like appearance. Typically, the flowers do not emit a strong fragrance, focusing their appeal on visual charm. The persistent blooming provides a reliable identification marker, contrasting against the plant’s green foliage with a consistent display of small, bright flowers.
The stems of tropical soda apple are initially green, maturing to a brown color as they age. They are covered with long, sharp prickles, which make the stem distinctive and easily recognizable. The texture of the stem is rough due to these prickles. Stems are generally erect and sturdy, with a thickness that can reach up to 0.5 inches (1.3 cm) in diameter. Branching is frequent, contributing to a dense, bushy appearance.
The fruit of tropical soda apple presents as a spherical structure measuring up to 1.5 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter. Initially, the fruit showcases a distinctive mottled green appearance, which over time transitions to a vibrant yellow upon maturity, signaling readiness for dispersal. The outer surface is smooth to the touch. Within this capsule-like fruit, a prolific number of seeds reside, often totaling around 400. These numerous minute seeds are central to the species' propagation strategy.
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Scientific Classification of Tropical soda apple
