Solanum aethiopicum, commonly known as Mock Tomato or Ethiopian Eggplant, is a perennial shrub native to a variety of habitats including forests, savannahs, and scrublands in Sub-Saharan Africa. It is often found in open, sunny areas and is well-adapted to a range of ecological conditions in the Horn of Africa. This species typically grows to a height of 2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters) and a similar width, with a bushy habit and dense foliage. The leaves are broad and somewhat reminiscent of the common eggplant, and they are consumed as a leafy green in many cultures, offering high nutritional value. The plant produces clusters of small, star-shaped orange flowers during the summer and fall, which are considered moderately showy. The fruit resembles a small, ribbed tomato and is harvested while green before the skin toughens. As it matures, the fruit may turn yellow to red, but it is often less palatable at this stage.

Mock Tomato is valued for its edible leaves and fruit, which are used in a variety of culinary dishes. It is increasingly popular in tropical and subtropical home gardens and is also grown commercially for its fruit. The plant is relatively easy to maintain, requiring moderate watering and thriving in a range of soil types, provided they are well-drained. It prefers full sun to part shade. While it is not commonly grown for ornamental purposes, its foliage and fruit can add interest to vegetable gardens and mixed borders. However, gardeners should be aware of its potential to become invasive outside its native range, and it may be subject to pests and diseases common to the Solanaceae family, such as aphids, whiteflies, and blights.CC BY-SA 4.0