Contents
Description
Physalis Crassifolia is a member of the Nightshade family (Solanaceae) native to Central and South America. It is commonly known as the Thick-leaved Ground Cherry and is an herbaceous perennial plant that can reach up to 1 meter in height. The leaves of the plant are thick and hairy, with a strong odor when crushed. The flowers are small and white, and the fruit is a round, yellow-golden berry, enclosed in a papery husk.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain| Kingdom| Phylum| Class| Order| Family| Genus|| ———– | ——— | ———| ——-| ———–| ———-|————–|| Eukaryota| Plantae| Spermatophyta | Magnoliopsida | Solanales | Solanaceae | Physalis |
Appearance
The Thick-leaved Ground Cherry has a distinctive appearance. The plant has thick, hairy leaves that are light green in color and can grow up to 6 inches long. The flowers are small and white, with five petals, and grow in clusters of two to five. The fruit is a round, yellow-golden berry, about the size of a cherry tomato, enclosed in a papery husk. The fruit is edible and has a sweet and tangy flavor.
Care Guide
To care for Physalis Crassifolia, it is important to provide the plant with adequate water, fertilization, soil, sunlight, and hardiness zones. The plant prefers well-draining soil and regular watering, but it can tolerate dry conditions. Fertilize the plant once every two weeks with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season. The plant requires full sun exposure to thrive and is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Thick-leaved Ground Cherry is susceptible to a number of pests and diseases, including whiteflies, aphids, spider mites, and powdery mildew. To prevent these problems, keep the plant well-watered and fertilized, and regularly inspect the leaves for signs of damage. If pests or diseases are detected, treat the plant with an insecticide or fungicide.
Habitat
The Thick-leaved Ground Cherry is native to Central and South America and can be found growing in a variety of habitats, including open fields, forests, and grasslands. The plant is well-adapted to hot and dry conditions and can tolerate a range of soil types.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the fruit of Physalis Crassifolia edible?
A: Yes, the fruit is edible and has a sweet and tangy flavor.
Q: What is the ideal growing zone for Physalis Crassifolia?
A: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Q: What are some common pests and diseases that affect the Thick-leaved Ground Cherry?
A: Whiteflies, aphids, spider mites, and powdery mildew are common pests and diseases that affect the plant.
Q: How often should I fertilize Physalis Crassifolia?
A: Fertilize the plant once every two weeks with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.
Related Plants
– Physalis Alkekengi- Physalis Angulata- Physalis Heterophylla- Physalis Peruviana
References
– “Physalis crassifolia”, Plants of the World Online, Kew Science. Accessed 11 Oct 2021.- “Thick-leaved Ground Cherry”, Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 11 Oct 2021.- “Physalis crassifolia”, Encyclopedia of Life. Accessed 11 Oct 2021.
