Solanum torvum Sw.
| Etymology | Genus | Solace; referring to the narcotic properties of certain species |
|---|---|---|
| Species | Savage; referring to the thorny branches | |
| Family | Solanaceae | |
| Synonyms | Solanum ficifolium Ortega, Solanum mayanum Lundell | |
| Common Names | Devil's Fig, Thai Pea Egg Plant, Prickly Solanum | |
| Status | Exotic: Naturalised | |
| Form | Shrub | |
| Native Distribution | Neotropics | |
Diagnostics:
Solanum torvum is a common shrub in open scrublands. It has loped leaves and recurved prickles on the stem and branches; and can be easily identified from the star-shaped white petals with a pointed yellow centre.
Interesting Facts:
The Devil's Fig is now naturalised in subtropical and tropical regions worldwide. It is cultivated for its edible fruits and dispersed by frugivorous birds (PIER, 1999).
Form of the Devil's Fig.
Loped leaf.
Prickles on the branches.
The distinct flowers.
Young fruits.
References
PIER (1999) Solanum torvum. Pacific Island Ecosystem at Risk (PIER), Institute of Pacific Islands Forestry. http://www.hear.org/pier/. Accessed on 26-Nov-2014.Author: Siyang
Posted: 2014-11-26 / Modified: 2017-12-25
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