Solanum montanum
NameSolanum montanum
Scientific NameSolanum montanum (R.Br.) Spreng.
Common NamesKangaroo Apple, Oondoroo
Plant FamilySolanaceae
Natural HabitatNative to southern Australia, it thrives in a variety of habitats including woodlands, open forests, and disturbed areas, often on sandy or loamy soils. It is known for its drought tolerance.
Parts Usedleaf,fruit
Medicinal Actionsanti-inflammatory,antimicrobial,antioxidant
Traditional UsesIndigenous Australians traditionally consumed the ripe fruits, which are less toxic than unripe ones. Poultices made from the leaves were applied externally to treat skin ailments, boils, and swellings. Unripe fruits and leaves, due to their toxicity, were used with extreme caution and primarily for external applications.
Active ConstituentsSolasodine, Solasonine, Solamargine
Preparation Methodspoultice
Contraindications & WarningsAll parts of the plant, especially unripe fruits and leaves, contain toxic steroidal glycoalkaloids. Ingestion of unripe parts can cause severe gastrointestinal upset and neurological symptoms. Pregnant women, children, and individuals with liver or kidney conditions should strictly avoid internal use.
Cultivation NotesThis plant grows well in full sun to partial shade in well-drained soil. It is drought-tolerant once established and can be propagated from seed or cuttings. It adapts to a range of soil types.
Raritycommon
Description
Solanum montanum, often treated as Solanum simile, is an erect, spreading shrub typically growing 1-3 meters tall. It features deeply lobed leaves and produces white to pale violet star-shaped flowers with prominent yellow anthers, followed by spherical, yellow to orange-red berries when ripe.
