Solanum lycopersicum - Flora of Qatar

Lycopersicon cerasiforme, Lycopersicon esculentum, Lycopersicon galenii, Lycopersicon humboldtii, Lycopersicon lycopersicum, Lycopersicon macrophyllum, Lycopersicon philippinarum, Lycopersicon pomumamoris, Lycopersicon pyriforme, Lycopersicon spurium, Solanum humboldtii, Solanum luridum, Solanum pomiferum, Solanum pruniforme, Solanum pseudolycopersicum, Solanum racemigerum, Solanum spurium

Common names

Extract from Wikipedia article

The tomato is the edible, often red fruit/berry of the nightshade Solanum lycopersicum, commonly known as a tomato plant. The species originated in the South American Andes and its use as a food originated in Mexico, and spread throughout the world following the Spanish colonization of the Americas. Its many varieties are now widely grown, sometimes in greenhouses in cooler climates.[+]

The tomato is consumed in diverse ways, including raw, as an ingredient in many dishes, sauces, salads, and drinks. While it is botanically a fruit, it is considered a vegetable for culinary purposes (as well as under U.S. customs regulations, see Nix v. Hedden), which has caused some confusion. The fruit is rich in lycopene, which may have beneficial health effects.

The tomato belongs to the nightshade family, Solanaceae. The plants typically grow to 1–3 meters (3–10 ft) in height and have a weak stem that often sprawls over the ground and vines over other plants. It is a perennial in its native habitat, although often grown outdoors in temperate climates as an annual. An average common tomato weighs approximately 100 grams (4 oz).

AI-generated Description

Solanum lycopersicum, commonly known as tomato, is a flowering plant native to South America. In Qatar, it is widely cultivated for its edible fruit. Research in Qatar has focused on improving crop yields and disease resistance in the country's hot and dry climate. Studies have explored the use of hydroponics, greenhouse cultivation, and grafting techniques to enhance tomato production in Qatar's challenging environmental conditions.

AI-generated summary of observations

Observations of Solanum lycopersicum in Qatar reveal that the plant can thrive in various areas of Doha. On Umm Wishad Street in Musheirib, a tomato plant was spotted on April 18, 2014. Two years later, another plant with fruits was observed near Al Ghada Street in Al Luqta on April 19, 2016. Additionally, a plant with yellow fruits was found on the median strip of Al Istiqlal Street in Onaiza on May 22, 2016. These sightings suggest that Solanum lycopersicum can grow and produce fruit in different neighborhoods of Doha, including Musheirib, Al Luqta, and Onaiza. The plant's ability to adapt to various environments is evident from its presence on streets and median strips, indicating its hardiness and versatility in the Qatari climate. The fruits were observed in different stages of ripeness, including yellow and red.

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Acknowledgements

QNHG (Qatar Natural History Group) and associated people, for a possibility to participate in their field excursions and to learn about local nature.

Solanum lycopersicum L.

Synonyms