Solanum macrocarpon

Solanum macrocarpon (also known as the African eggplant or gboma) is a plant species in the family Solanaceae. It is native to Africa and is cultivated for its edible fruit.

Etymology

The name Solanum macrocarpon is derived from the Latin words solanum meaning "nightshade" and macrocarpon meaning "large fruit". The common name "African eggplant" refers to its place of origin and its resemblance to the common eggplant.

Description

Solanum macrocarpon is a perennial plant that can grow up to 1 meter in height. The leaves are alternate, simple, and have a lobed or toothed margin. The flowers are white or purple, and the fruit is a large, round berry that is green when unripe and yellow when ripe.

Cultivation and uses

Solanum macrocarpon is cultivated for its edible fruit, which is used in a variety of dishes in African cuisine. The leaves are also edible and are used as a leafy vegetable. The plant is also used in traditional medicine for the treatment of various ailments.

Related species

Solanum macrocarpon is closely related to other species in the Solanum genus, such as the common eggplant (Solanum melongena) and the tomato (Solanum lycopersicum).

See also

• List of African dishes
• List of Solanum species

References

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  Solanum macrocarpon plant with fruits
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  Solanum macrocarpon fruit close-up
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  Solanum macrocarpon leaves and flowers