Adam H. Putnam, Commissioner - Richard D. Gaskalla, Director

Tropical Soda Apple Solanum viarum

Frequently Asked Questions

What is tropical soda apple?
Tropical soda apple (Solanum viarum) is a thorny, perennial broadleaved weed that spread throughout the entire state of Florida in less than 10 years.

Where did tropical soda apple come from?
Tropical soda apple is native to Paraguay, northern Argentina, Uruguay, and southern Brazil, but has spread to many other parts of the world. It was first identified in Florida in 1988, but may have been introduced earlier.

Why is tropical soda apple a problem?
Tropical soda apple is a problem for ranchers because it quickly covers entire pastures and is unpalatable to livestock. It is a problem for managers of parks and other natural and recreational areas because it displaces native plants.

What does tropical soda apple look like? TSA Photographs

How do I control tropical soda apple? TSA Best Management Practices

What is being done to stop the spread of tropical soda apple? TSA Compliance Requirements