In western South America, however, there is found growing a wild plant of lycopersicum which differs from the other recognized species in being more compact in growth, with fewer branches and larger leaves, and carrying an immense burden of fruit borne in large clusters.
"Tomato Culture: A Practical Treatise on the Tomato"
William Warner Tracy
The term lycopersicum signifies a "wolf's peach," because some parts of the plant are thought to excite animal passions.
"Herbal Simples Approved for Modern Uses of Cure"
William Thomas Fernie
It was called lycopersicum- a compound term meaning wolf and peach; indicating that, notwithstanding its beauty, it was regarded as a sort of "Dead Sea fruit."
"The Home Acre"
E. P. Roe