The green fruits that appear on your potato plants are commonly known as potato berries, and they are a natural part of the potato plant's reproductive cycle.
Understanding Potato Berries on Your Plants
These small, often green, fruits develop after the potato plant flowers and contain the plant's true seeds. They are known by several names, including:
- Seed balls
- Potato apples
- Potato tomatoes
- Berries
It is crucial to understand that despite their appearance, which might resemble small tomatoes, potato berries are NOT edible.
Why Potato Berries Are Poisonous
Unlike cherry tomatoes, which are a safe and delicious fruit, potato berries contain high amounts of a toxic compound called solanine. This glycoalkaloid is naturally present in various parts of the potato plant, particularly in the leaves, stems, flowers, and these berries.
- High Solanine Content: The concentration of solanine in these berries makes them highly poisonous.
- Health Risks: Consuming potato berries can make the devourer very sick, leading to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headaches, and in severe cases, more serious neurological issues.
- Safety Precaution: Always ensure that children and pets do not ingest these berries.
Key Differences: Potato Berries vs. Cherry Tomatoes
Given their visual similarity, it's essential to distinguish between the poisonous potato berry and the edible cherry tomato.
| Feature | Potato Berries (Green Fruits on Potato Plants) | Cherry Tomatoes |
|---|---|---|
| Plant Origin | Solanum tuberosum (Potato Plant) | Solanum lycopersicum (Tomato Plant) |
| Edibility | Poisonous | Edible |
| Toxic Compound | High amounts of Solanine | Very low amounts of solanine (when ripe) |
| Purpose on Plant | Contains seeds for reproduction | Edible fruit for consumption |
| Risk | Can cause severe sickness | Safe to eat |
While the potato plant is famed for its edible underground tubers, its above-ground fruits serve a different, non-edible purpose. Always exercise caution and educate anyone who might encounter these berries in your garden about their toxic nature.
