green kangaroo-apple
Namegreen kangaroo-apple
Scientific NameSolanum aviculare
Common NamesKangaroo Apple, Poroporo, New Zealand Nightshade
Plant FamilySolanaceae
Natural HabitatNative to eastern Australia and New Zealand, found in disturbed areas, forest margins, open woodlands, and coastal regions.
Parts Usedfruit,leaf
Medicinal Actionsanti-inflammatory,antimicrobial
Traditional UsesRipe fruits were traditionally consumed by Indigenous Australians and Māori, though unripe fruits are toxic. Leaves and unripe fruits were sometimes used externally as poultices for skin ailments, but internal medicinal use is generally avoided due to toxicity. The plant is primarily valued for its solasodine content, a precursor for pharmaceutical steroid production.
Active ConstituentsSolasodine, Solamargine, Solasonine
Preparation Methodspoultice
Contraindications & WarningsAll parts of the plant, especially unripe fruits and leaves, are toxic due to steroidal glycoalkaloids. Internal consumption of unripe parts can cause severe gastrointestinal upset, neurological symptoms, and is dangerous. Not recommended for internal medicinal use. Exercise extreme caution.
Cultivation NotesA vigorous, frost-tender shrub that thrives in full sun to partial shade and well-drained soils. It can be grown from seed or cuttings and is relatively low maintenance.
Raritycommon
Description
A fast-growing shrub characterized by its elongated, often deeply lobed leaves and pendulous, ovoid green fruits that ripen to orange or red. The fruits are typically 1.5-2.5 cm long, hanging from slender stalks.
