Physalis foetens

Poir.

Tropical Groundcherry

Solanaceae Edible: Fruit Potential hazards — see below

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Wikimedia Commons - Descourtilz, J. Theodore.; Descourtilz, M. E.; Pichard.

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Summary

Frost-tender annual reaching 0.6 m tall. Hermaphroditic flowers pollinated by insects. Grows in light sandy, medium loamy, or heavy clay soils with good drainage. Tolerates mildly acid, neutral, and mildly alkaline pH. Requires full sun and prefers moist, well-drained soil.

Description

Edible Uses

The fruit can be eaten raw or cooked. Each fruit is naturally enclosed in a papery calyx husk that protects it from pests and the elements. The calyx itself is toxic and must not be eaten.

Medicinal Uses

None known.

Known Hazards

The calyx surrounding the fruit is toxic and should never be consumed.

Distribution

It is a temperate plant. In the southern USA it grows between 1,500-2,250 m above sea level.

Where It Grows

North America, USA,

Cultivation

We have very little information on this species and do not know if it will be hardy in Britain, though it should be possible to treat it as a tender annual, sowing the seed in early spring in a warm greenhouse and planting out after the last expected frosts. The following notes are based on the general needs of the genus. Succeeds in any well-drained soil in full sun or light shade.

Propagation

Sow seed in March or April in a greenhouse, barely covering it. Germination is generally quick and reliable. Prick seedlings out into individual pots of reasonably rich soil once large enough to handle, then plant outside after the last expected frosts, ideally with cloche protection until they are growing well. Diurnal temperature fluctuations aid germination.