The Story
Plant Bio
Solanum pseudocapsicum, commonly known as Jerusalem cherry, is a small evergreen shrub with glossy green leaves and bright red, cherry-like berries that add ornamental appeal. It produces small white flowers in summer.
This species is prized for its vibrant, long-lasting orange-red berries that provide ornamental interest from fall through winter, though all parts of the plant are toxic if ingested.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Shrub
Height
18 inches
Width
24 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
9, 10
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
South America
Toxicity
All parts are toxic if ingested
Bloom period
Summer – Late fall
In flower about 5 months of the year
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in spring
- Water regularly to keep soil moist but not soggy
- Place in full sun for best berry production
- Apply balanced fertilizer monthly during growing season
- Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape
- Mulch around base to retain moisture
Pro Tip
Ensure good drainage and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water consistently during dry spells 🌱
- Prune to shape after flowering
- Use balanced fertilizer monthly
Don't
- Overwater to avoid root rot ❌
- Allow berries to become moldy
- Neglect pruning and cleanup
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Propagate | ||||||||||||
| Prune | ||||||||||||
| Winter Prep |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Jerusalem Cherry questions
What zones can Jerusalem Cherry grow in?
Jerusalem Cherry is hardy in USDA Zones 9–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Jerusalem Cherry deer resistant?
Yes — Jerusalem Cherry is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Jerusalem Cherry bloom?
Jerusalem Cherry typically blooms in summer through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Jerusalem Cherry need full sun?
Jerusalem Cherry does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
More Solanum to compare
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Solanum lycopersicum 'Martino's Roma'
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Solanum tuberosum 'Yukon Gold'
Sweet Tomato
Solanum lycopersicum 'Sweet'
Napa Rose Tomato
Solanum lycopersicum 'Napa Rose'
Red Currant Tomato
Solanum lycopersicum 'Red Currant'
Black and Brown Boar Tomato
Solanum lycopersicum 'Black and Brown Boar'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Jerusalem Cherry with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.