Solanum quitoense has limited potential in large-scale agriculture due to the plant's extreme vulnerability to pests and diseases when grown as a crop. Naranjilla Growing Information. “The golden fruit of the Andes,” naranjillaplants are herbaceous shrubs with a spreading habit that are commonly found throughout Central and South... We get a lot of questions about one particular plant in the Grunsfeld Children’s Growing Garden: Naranjilla (pronounced nahr-ahn-HEE-yah). It’s easy to see why. The Naranjillaplant grows in South America in Ecuador, Peru, and Colombia. In Spanish, the name Naranjilla means “little orange.” The naranjillaplant is fragile and can be difficult to cultivate, perhaps contributing to its lack of popularity outside of South America. Naranjilla are delicate plants and must be protected from strong winds and direct sunlight. I learned this after crossing the Crescent City Connection with a load of plants bound for Marrero. Naranjilla. Solanum quitoense. Also known as the lulo, lulum. By Scott Sheu. With a name that means “little orange” in Spanish, the naranjilla is a diminutive fruit that packs a big punch. The Naranjilla was first introduced in this country in 1956 by Dr. Harold Mouat of DSIR. Plants were grown at the Mount Albert Research centre and some were sent to Kerikeri orchardists. Naranjillaplant details. Naranjilla is a broadleaf evergreen perennial fruit / vegetable or shrub with green, purple and variegated foliage. Naranjilla it is a premium plant that is obtained by collecting 200 seed packets. Naranjilla is inspired by the fruit of the same name that is also known as lulo, it is similar to tomato, it is ovoid... An exotic plant and fruit in its own right, the naranjilla is an interesting plant for those wishing to learn how to grow it. Read this article for naranjilla growing information and more. Naranjilla is a prickly shrub. It’s primarily grown for its tart fruit which are used for juicing. Plants produce large, flimsy, short-lived leaves. Naranjilla Growing Conditions and flourishes in climates with temps between 62 and 66 degrees F. (17-19 C.) and high humidity. Naranjillaplants are a bit sensitive. They need protection from strong winds and too much sun. They grow best where there is some shade.