Both plants are noted for very rapid growth from seed, and very strongly fragrant foliage.

Solanum abutiloides quickly matures into a shrub or small tree up to 9 m (30 ft) tall, though usually far smaller.

Blooms are followed by fruits - a small oblong berry that ripens to a yellow-orange color.

The fruits are edible, though Solanum abutiloides is rare in cultivation and plants have not been bred for quality of flavor.

As is common with Solanaceae, pests like aphids, spider mites, and white flies are attracted to the trees.