Seeds of Thuthuvalai, Thai nightshade (Solanum trilobatum) — 15 pcs
Thuthuvalai from seed
Thuthuvalai is a climbing nightshade from South India with three-lobed leaves, little violet, starry flowers and little round fruits that turn from green to purplish. In Tamil Nadu the tender leaves are cooked into rasam, chutney and thogayal. Stems and leaf veins carry small hooked spines, so this is a plant for gloves.
Habit
thorny climber, 1.5-2 m
Pretreatment
soak 12-24 hours in warm water
Germination
2-3 weeks at 20-30 °C
Sowing depth
1-2 cm
Ships from our partner warehouse in India: dispatch within 1 business day, delivery in 7-21 business days. Shipping €6.90, free from €69. See delivery details and the refund and return policy.
How to sow
- Give the seeds a warm-water bath overnight, up to a day, and plant them one to two centimetres down.
- In a warm spot, between 20 and 30 °C, expect the first shoots after two to three weeks.
- Pot them on into a slightly acidic, well-drained mix and provide a support early, as the plant starts climbing young.
Growing in Europe
Grow it in a large pot with a trellis, in full sun or light shade, and bring it indoors before frost. Water moderately. Pinching the tips makes the plant bushier and gives more flowers and fruit. In a warm conservatory it can flower almost all year.
Questions
Does Solanum trilobatum have thorns?
Yes. Small spines run along the stems and leaf veins, so wear gloves when handling it.
How long do thuthuvalai seeds take to sprout?
Usually two to three weeks in warmth, once the seed has been pre-soaked overnight.
Can I grow thuthuvalai in a pot?
Yes. Use a large pot with a trellis and keep it frost-free in winter.