Family: Solanaceae

Origin, Description & Uses
Solanum pseudocapsicum, commonly known as Jerusalem cherry, Madeira winter cherry, or Christmas cherry, is a small evergreen shrub native to South America, ranging from Bolivia and Brazil to other parts of southern South America. It is widely grown as an ornamental plant for its attractive dark green foliage, star-shaped white flowers, and bright orange to red berry-like fruits that persist for long periods, especially during winter. Its colorful fruits make it popular as a decorative houseplant and landscape specimen, although all parts of the plant, particularly the fruits, are considered toxic if ingested.

Risks & Threats
Solanum pseudocapsicum is naturalized on Oʻahu, Molokaʻi, Maui, and Hawaiʻi Island. This species possesses several traits that are cause for concern, including prolific fruit production, dispersal by birds and other animals, and the ability to establish in disturbed and natural habitats. These characteristics allow it to spread beyond cultivation and form self-sustaining populations. As a result, it has the potential to detrimentally impact tropical island ecosystems by competing with native vegetation and contributing to the spread of invasive plant communities. Because this species is already naturalized in Hawaiʻi, its continued planting may facilitate further spread into new areas. Where possible, consider choosing a low-risk or native alternative for ornamental plantings. In areas where Jerusalem cherry is already widespread, landowners and gardeners are encouraged to manage existing plants and avoid introducing them to locations where they are not yet established, helping to minimize additional ecological impacts.

High Risk Traits:

• Elevation range exceeds 1000 m, demonstrating environmental versatility
  
• Thrives in tropical climates
  
• Widely naturalized, including Oahu, Molokai, Maui, and Hawaii
  
• Environmental weed, can exclude native species
  
• Other Solanum species are invasive
  
• Toxic to animals and people
  
• Shade-tolerant
  
• Forms dense stands
  
• Reproduces by seed
  
• Self-compatible
  
• Seeds dispersed by birds and both accidentally and intentionally by people
  
• Seeds may form a persistent seed bank
  
• Able to resprout after cutting or pruning

Low Risk Traits:

• Unarmed (no spines, thorns or burrs)
  
• Ornamental
  
• Not reported to spread vegetatively
  
• Herbicides may provide effective control