Solanum gratum
Image: The New York Botanical Garden (cc-by)
NameSolanum gratum
Scientific NameSolanum gratum Bitter
Plant FamilySolanaceae
Natural HabitatNative to montane forests of tropical South America, specifically documented in Parque Nacional El Ávila, Venezuela, at elevations around 1850 meters.
Parts Used
Medicinal Actions
Traditional UsesThere are no widely documented traditional medicinal uses for Solanum gratum in available ethnobotanical literature. Many species within the Solanum genus are known to contain toxic alkaloids.
Preparation Methods
Contraindications & WarningsDue to the general toxicity associated with many species in the Solanum genus, caution is advised. Specific contraindications for Solanum gratum are not documented due to a lack of medicinal use information.
Cultivation NotesAs a tropical montane tree, it likely thrives in humid, subtropical to tropical climates with well-drained soil. Specific cultivation requirements are not widely documented.
Rarityuncommon
Description
Solanum gratum is a tree that can grow up to 15 meters tall with a trunk diameter of 20 cm. Its leaves are opaque green on the upper surface and are noted to have black glands. The specimen displays ovate to elliptic leaves and small, round fruits.
