Description
Cyphomandra betacea ‘Rojo Grande de Carmelo’ is a vigorous tamarillo cultivar prized for its large, deep red fruits and excellent flavor. Native to the Andean region and widely cultivated in South America, this fast-growing small tree typically reaches 2 to 4 meters in height, developing a short trunk and a spreading canopy of large, heart-shaped leaves that lend a lush, tropical appearance.
The plant produces clusters of fragrant pinkish-white flowers that are followed by large, egg-shaped fruits with smooth, glossy red skin. The flesh is juicy and aromatic, offering a rich sweet-tart flavor that is highly regarded for fresh consumption, juices, desserts, jams, and sauces. Compared to many standard tamarillo varieties, ‘Rojo Grande de Carmelo’ is especially valued for its fruit size, productivity, and attractive coloration.
This cultivar thrives in mild subtropical and tropical highland climates. It prefers full sun to light shade, fertile, well-drained soil rich in organic matter, and regular moisture. Protection from strong winds and severe frosts is important, as the brittle branches and foliage can be damaged by adverse conditions.
Germination Guide
🌍 Andes Mountains of South America (southern Bolivia, northwestern Argentina, Peru, Ecuador, Chile)
Easy
Solanum betaceum, commonly known as tamarillo or tree tomato, is a subtropical evergreen shrub native to the Andes Mountains of South America. The Rojo Grande de Carmelo cultivar produces gloriously large, deeply colored red fruits. Seeds germinate readily in warm, consistently moist conditions with temperatures between 20-25°C, requiring light exposure and typically sprouting within 2-4 weeks in well-draining, seed-starting soil.
Germination
Germination time
Expect germination in
7 – 28 days
Temperature
Min 18°C
Ideal 20°C
Max 29°C
Substrate moisture
💧 Medium
Sowing depth
Lightly covered
Seed Pre-treatment
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💧
Soaking — 24 hours
Soak seeds in warm water for 24 to 48 hours to soften seed coat and remove germination inhibitors; optional cold stratification (24 hours freezer) can accelerate germination
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🔨
Mechanical scarification
Light scarification of seed coat can improve germination rates by allowing water penetration; optional but beneficial
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📋
Additional notes
Clean seeds thoroughly to remove pulp and dried fruit residue; this contains natural germination inhibitors
Substrate & Container
Recommended substrate
Seed-starting mix or seedling soil, well-draining, fertile, pH 6.0-7.0; can include perlite and coarse sand
Recommended container
Seed trays or small pots with drainage holes; use heated propagator for optimal results
Growing Tips
Surface sow or lightly cover seeds (light improves germination). Keep soil consistently moist but never waterlogged to prevent stem rot in seedlings. Maintain 20-25°C (68-77°F) with bottom heat if available. Use a humidity dome or plastic cover to retain moisture during germination. Remove pulp from seeds before sowing to eliminate germination inhibitors. Optional cold stratification (freezer for 24 hours) or soaking in warm water for 24-48 hours can accelerate germination. Transplant seedlings into individual pots once they develop 2-3 true leaves. Provide bright indirect light after germination and keep seedlings in warm, protected location until established.
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