Cari Nightshade (Solanum cari)

Family: Solanaceae | Edibility: Edible (1/5)

Solanum cari is a ANNUAL growing to 1 m (3ft 3in). The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Fruit, Berries, Leaves, Roots/Tubers

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Young leaves - cooked. The leaves contain about 6990mg of beta carotene per 100g. Caution is advised, see the notes above on toxicity. Fruit - cooked. It should be used only when fully ripe. — Young leaves - cooked.; The leaves contain about 6990mg of beta carotene per 100g.; Caution is advised, see the notes above on toxicity.; It should be used only when fully ripe.

Habitat & North American Range

Rocky or dry open woods, thickets, shores or openings, often on cultivated or waste ground. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)