Nipple Fruit is a small shrub native to South
America. It is cultivated for its curious looking fruit. The nipple
fruit is related to tomato, and the plant looks similar. Large velvety
leaves have purple veins and furry hair, along with prominent spikes.
The branches and stems are also dotted with firm thorns. Bushy shrub is
up to 3-6 ft tall. The pink-purple flowers develop during spring, which
are very much like Brinjal or Potato flowers. They are followed by the
waxy, yellow colored fruit, 3-5 inches long, ripening a few months
later. Fruits are fleshy, poisonous, and contain several seeds. sually
grown as an ornamental for its unique fruits. The plant also has a few
medicinal properties. The juice of the fruit shows some detergent
activity and can be used for washing clothing.
Identification credit: Prashant Awale
Photographed in Shillong, Meghalaya & Mumbai.
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The flower labeled Nipple Fruit is ...