**1. Introduction**

The tree tomato (*Solanum betaceum* Cav., syn. *Cyphomandra betacea* (Cav. Sendt.)) is a lesser-known tiny shrub or semi-woody tree that grows at elevations of 500–2500 m. The tamarillo, sometimes known as a 'tree tomato' because of its flesh's resemblance to that of a tomato, is a member of the *solanaceae* (nightshade) family [1]. The tree tomato is related to a group of taxa that used to be classified under the *Cyphomandra* genus. The species of the genus *Cyphomandra* were reassigned to the genus *Solanum*, subgenus *Bassovia*, based on morphological and genetic data [2, 3]. The scientific community now uses the *Solanum* designations to refer to tree tomatoes and wild cousins. In New Zealand, the term "Tamarillo" has become the usual

commercial identification for the fruit [4]. It can be found in subtropical and mild temperate climates all over the world. Commercially, it is grown in New Zealand and a few parts of South America. Although some high-performing uniform lines have been produced, commercial plantings are of seed propagated populations. Although it is a largely unexploited species, it presents a wonderful chance to diversify fruit production as a high-value income crop in many subtropical and mild temperate production locations. It comes in two colors red and yellow, with the red being the more popular and prevalent. It's a vivid red egg-shaped fruit with yellow-orange flesh and black seeds encased in purple gelatin. The red color comes from anthocyanin pigments, while the yellow-orange color comes from carotenoids. Tree tomatoes at the fruit-bearing stage require support to keep their branches from breaking off as they get packed with fruit. Because of its shallow root system, they are readily blown over by the wind. The plant is not affected by the duration of the day. *Cyphomandra* species such as *C. hartwegii*, *C. sibundoyensis*, and *C. cajanumensis* produce edible fruits in the wild. Other *Cyphomandra* species are employed as colors and in medical formulations. This category of plants is becoming more economically important, and it may have a lot of future promise.
