Cocona, Solanum sessilliforum, also known as Peach Tomato, Cubiu and Orinoko Apple is an evergreen, small, about 2 meters tall, tropical fruit bearing shrub, similar in appearance to naranjilla, Solanum quitoense. The plant is a member of the Solanaceae family the genus Solanum. It is not encountered in the wild, only in cultivation.

The Cocona plant has stout branches and ovate, large, up to 45cm long and up to 40cm wide, serrated, hairy leaves. Flowers are self-fertile, 5-8 mm wide, 2-4 mm long.

The fruit of Solanum sessilliforum is an edible berry that could be orange, yellow or red in colour, when ripe, 3- 10 cm across, oval and with several seeds, 3-4mm long and 2.5mm wide, roundish and smooth. Fruit flesh is yellow with a fruity lemon and tomato-like flavor.

Fruit is consumed fresh, used in desserts, drinks, jam, fruit compote, jelly, or flavoring, as well as in the production of cosmetics. It can be used much like tomatoes. Certain varieties are highly rated for their juice and its high nutritional value. Recent studies have suggested the possibility of high-cholesterol fighting chemical compounds contained within the Cocona fruit.

Solanum sessilliforum favors full sun and a sheltered from frost location. It is quite sensitive to spider mites so care should be taken that humidity is not to low in winder during windy periods. The plant is not very fastidious as to soil type, as long as there is decent drainage. It can not endure any frost.

Plant Propagation is by seed and root cuttings. The Cocona can fruit from seed in just 6-10 months, fruits taking about 8 weeks to mature under normal conditions. The plant is highly productive.

Solanum sessilliforum, Cocona

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The key to successful fruit and nut production is the provision of a beneficial environment for the trees that bear them.