Deprea lutea
NameDeprea lutea
Scientific NameDeprea lutea
Common NamesAndean Wild Tomato, Uvilla Silvestre
Plant FamilySolanaceae
Natural HabitatNative to the high-altitude cloud forests and montane regions of the Andes in South America, thriving in moist, well-drained soils.
Parts Usedfruit
Medicinal Actions
Traditional UsesDeprea lutea is primarily known for its small, edible fruits, which are consumed locally in its native Andean range. There are no widely documented traditional medicinal uses for this specific plant.
Active ConstituentsSteroidal alkaloids, Flavonoids
Preparation Methods
Contraindications & WarningsDue to the lack of documented medicinal use and specific research, contraindications are not well-established. As with many Solanaceae, caution is generally advised, particularly with unripe fruits or other plant parts, due to potential alkaloid content.
Cultivation NotesPrefers tropical montane climates, thriving in moist, well-drained soil with partial shade to full sun. It can be grown from seed and requires conditions mimicking its native Andean habitat.
Rarityuncommon
Description
This perennial herb or small shrub features simple, ovate leaves and distinctive pale yellow-green, star-shaped flowers with five petals and prominent stamens, as seen in the image. It produces small, edible berries.
