Full List of Fruits Naranjilla Fruit
Introduction of Naranjilla FruitNutritional Value of Naranjilla FruitUses of Naranjilla FruitHealth Benefits of Naranjilla FruitPropagation
Naranjilla Fruit
Introduction of Naranjilla Fruit
Scientific name - Solanum quitoense
The Naranjilla is grown as an ornamental plant as it possesses large elongated heart shaped leaves that measures to 45cm in length. Tiny hairs are seen covering the shoot and leaves of the plant. The species by nature do not have the tolerance to withstand strong winds and direct sunlight. Its fruit is known for the unique citrus flavor that has been often processed for making a drink.
The tender fruits are externally covered by tiny brown hairs. The ripened fruits are identified by the features like dark orange hue with smooth and leathery rind. The fruit is partitioned into 4 compartments that are filled by a green colored pineapple flavored juice.
Nutritional Value of Naranjilla Fruit
| Fruit Nutrients | Percent contained in Fruit |
| Water | 90% |
| Protein | 1% |
| Fat | Less than .0001% |
| Carbohydrates | 3.8% |
| Fiber | 1.4% |
| Sugar | 3% |
| Calories | (kcal/100g) 18 |
| Vitamin C | 2.6% |
| Fruit Nutrients | mg per 100g of Nutrients |
| Calcium | 5.9-12.4 mg |
| Phosphorus | 12.0-43.7 mg |
| Iron | 0.34-0.64 mg |
| Carotene | 0.071-0.0232 mg |
| Thiamine | 0.04-0.094 |
| Riboflavin | 0.03-0.047 |
| Niacin | 1.19-1.76 |
The fruit is processed in industries for making juices and smoothies. Its extract is used as a main ingredient in certain types of traditional cuisines. Often used for making ice cream, tarts and other delicious desserts. As the fruit has a sour acidic citrus flavor it is widely used as the supplementary flavoring agent in beverages or cocktails.
Health Benefits of Naranjilla Fruit
The present antioxidants help to slow down the aging effects and prevent other cardiovascular diseases.
The rich carotenoids which include vitamin A and beta carotene help to neutralize the free radicals.
Increases metabolic strength and inhibits the other vision issues.
As the fruit is rich in minerals such as calcium, phosphorous and iron, it can help strength the bones thereby preventing conditions like osteoporosis.
The plant grows well in a milder temperature and each seedlings can be grafted when grows to a height of 2 ft (60 cm)., this seedlings have to be raised as with the similar methods of growing tomato which will be ready for transplantation within 2 to 3 months. Only the well grafted seedlings are grown for the further stages. The other successful grafting methods include saddle, side, and whip.
