Unlike other Solanum species, it typically does not have prickles, but if present they will be sparse and towards the base of the plant.

[10] Variation in leaf morphology of other Solanum species means differentiation is difficult outside of the summer to autumn fruiting season.

It is typically found in sandy soils near creek beds and pools of water,[10] but is also associated with other ecological communities including wooded downs (defined by dominance of Acacia cana) and gidgee (defined by dominance of Acacia cambagei) communities.

However, as with other Solanum species, distribution is most likely through consumption of the berry by mammals and birds, including sheep.

[13] As with other bush tomatoes, S. esuriale is traditionally a valuable food source for Indigenous Australians;[3] the term "esu'riale" has been used to describe "appeasing hunger" in specific reference to the fruits of the quena.

[8] Sheep are known to readily eat the fruits,[15] but the remainder of the plant is considered unpalatable herbage.

[12] Even when dried and powered, addition of S. esuriale leaves and stems to feed has shown limited success for ingestrion by sheep during experimental intake.