Solanum lycocarpum, or wolf apple, is common in the Brazilian savanna, the Cerrado ecoregion. The plant is called lobeira ("wolf's plant") or fruta-do-lobo ("wolf's fruit") in Portuguese.The name "wolf apple" comes from the fact that they account for more than 50% of the maned wolf's diet. Likewise, the scientific name "lycocarpum" is formed from Latinized Greek elements "lyco-", meaning "wolf", and "carpum" meaning "fruit".
Wolf apple has good resistance to disease and is generally not prone to illnesses. In terms of care, this plant is relatively low maintenance. When grown outdoors, it requires minimal watering, and larger plants generally do not need to be pruned. However, smaller plants should be pruned after they have bloomed. Wolf applet is suitable for anyone with an outdoor space, such as a garden or deck, and does not require much care experience.
How to keep Solanum Lycocarpum.
Light
Wolf apple is native to open habitats like sunlit meadows and the edges of forests, where light is plentiful. It does best in full sun but can also tolerate partial sun, adjusting well to a range of light conditions.
Temperature
Wolf apple shows good temperature adaptability, tolerating high heat and wide temperature fluctuations. In hot conditions, care should be taken with watering and providing adequate shade to avoid sunburn. Conversely, Wolf apple is less tolerant of low temperatures. Although it can endure a certain amount of cold, very low temperatures can cause frost damage.
Fertilizer
Fertilize your Wolf apple in early spring to encourage healthy growth. Regular feeding improves its overall health, leading to vigorous growth, increased tolerance of difficult conditions, and enhanced resistance to diseases and pests. Follow a consistent fertilization schedule for your Wolf apple to maintain foliage that is vibrant, richly colored, and lush in appearance.
Pruning
Prune wolf apple trees in early spring to boost growth and fruit production. Start by removing dead branches and thinning out crowded areas to improve air circulation. Regular pruning helps prevent disease and strengthens the tree's structure. However, be careful not to over-prune, as excessive pruning can disrupt the tree's natural shape and resilience.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Shrub
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Solanum
- Family
- Solanaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 9-11
- Mature Height
- 2.13 m to 3.96 m
- Mature Spread
- 2.13 m to 3.05 m
- Leaf Color
- Green, Dark Green
- Leaf Type
- Deciduous
- Flower Size
- 4.06 cm to 5.08 cm
- Bloom Time
- All year round
- Planting Time
- Summer, Autumn
- Harvest Time
- All year round
Reader questions.
What are the sunlight requirements for Wolf apple (Solanum lycocarpum)?
Wolf apple, or Solanum lycocarpum, thrives in various sunlight conditions. For optimal growth, it requires 'Full sun', meaning the plant should receive above 6 hours of sunlight daily. However, it can also manage in 'Partial sun' conditions, which implies about 3-6 hours of sunlight. It's crucial to observe how sunlight moves through your garden throughout the day to choose spots that offer a good balance of light and shade, ensuring your Wolf apple plants grow happy and healthy.
What is the botanical name of the Wolf apple?
The botanical name of the Wolf apple is Solanum lycocarpum.
