Ground Cherry Physalis

The Physalis or the tomatillo or ground cherry genus is comprised of 94 species of perennial herbs in the Solanaceae (nightshade) family native to America. The species in the genus can be found growing as weeds in disturbed areas, forest or thin woodlands, and sandy, open areas. They are sometimes cultivated in home vegetable gardens but a word of caution: the unripe fruits as well as other parts of the plants are poisonous and should not be consumed. The ripe fruits are edible and will fall to the ground in their papery husks that resemble tiny lanterns, hence the common names, Chinese lantern and ground cherry. The genus name comes from the Greek physa meaning a bladder for the inflated calyx.

You should grow them in the garden as you would a tomato plant. You start them from seed or as transplants. They do best in full sun with moist, well drained soil. They quickly reach 3 feet tall with a branched and spreading habit. The fruits are globe shaped and mature to a yellow-orange color surrounded by a papery sac. The fruit of many species is similar to a firm tomato in texture, and like a sweet grape in flavor.

These plants spread by rhizomes and can spread aggressively or self-seed in the garden. Propagate by seed or by division. Plants may be grown as annuals by starting seed indoors about 6-8 weeks prior to last spring frost date.

Diseases, Insect Pests, and Other Plant Problems:

Species are susceptible to most of the common diseases and pests of tomatoes.