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Description
Physalis Cinerascens is a perennial plant that belongs to the Solanaceae family. This plant is commonly known as the Ground Cherry or Tomatillo, and it is native to Mexico and Central America. Its fruit is a small, round berry that is yellowish-green when ripe, and it is surrounded by a papery husk. The fruit has a sweet and tangy taste, and it is often used in jams, pies, and other desserts.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Solanales |
| Family | Solanaceae |
| Genus | Physalis |
Appearance
Physalis Cinerascens is a low-growing plant that reaches a height of 1-2 feet. It has green, hairy leaves that are 2-6 inches long and 1-3 inches wide. The flowers are small and white, and they appear in clusters in the leaf axils. The fruit is a small, round berry that is 1/2 to 1 inch in diameter, and it is surrounded by a papery husk that turns brown when ripe.
Care Guide
Physalis Cinerascens prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It should be watered regularly, but not overwatered. Fertilization should be done every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. This plant prefers full sun to partial shade, and it is hardy in USDA zones 4-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Physalis Cinerascens is susceptible to a number of pests and diseases, including aphids, whiteflies, and spider mites. It can also be affected by powdery mildew, blight, and leaf spot. To prevent these problems, it is important to keep the plant healthy and well-watered.
Habitat
Physalis Cinerascens is native to Mexico and Central America, and it grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, grasslands, and disturbed areas. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Physalis Cinerascens?
A: Physalis Cinerascens should be watered regularly, but not overwatered. The soil should be kept moist but not soggy.
Q: What is the best fertilizer for Physalis Cinerascens?
A: Physalis Cinerascens prefers a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
Q: Can I grow Physalis Cinerascens in a container?
A: Yes, Physalis Cinerascens can be grown in a container. Make sure the container has good drainage, and use a well-draining soil mix.
Q: When is the best time to harvest Physalis Cinerascens?
A: Physalis Cinerascens should be harvested when the fruit is fully ripe and the husk has turned brown. The fruit can be stored in the husk for several weeks.
Related Plants
- Physalis angulata
- Physalis ixocarpa
- Physalis longifolia
- Physalis peruviana
References
- “Physalis Cinerascens.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 26 August 2021. <https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=288048&isprofile=0&%3Bpt=2>
- “Tomatillo.” Purdue University Horticulture & Landscape Architecture. Accessed 26 August 2021. <https://www.hort.purdue.edu/newcrop/Crops/Tomatillo.html>
- “Tomatillo (Physalis ixocarpa).” University of California Agriculture & Natural Resources. Accessed 26 August 2021. <https://ucanr.edu/sites/Postharvest_Technology_Center_/Commodity_Resources/Fruit_and_Nut_Commodities/Tomatillo/>
