Contents
Description
Physalis Heterophylla, commonly known as Clammy Ground Cherry, is a perennial herbaceous plant native to North America. It belongs to the Solanaceae family and is closely related to tomatoes and peppers. This plant is characterized by its yellow, lantern-shaped fruit that is edible and has a sweet taste. It grows up to 3 feet tall and can spread up to 2 feet wide. The stems are hairy, and the leaves are ovate and serrated. The flowers are small and white, and they bloom in late summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Solanales |
| Family | Solanaceae |
| Genus | Physalis |
Appearance
Physalis Heterophylla has a distinct appearance with hairy stems and ovate, serrated leaves. The plant can grow up to 3 feet tall and can spread up to 2 feet wide. The flowers are small and white, and they bloom in late summer. The fruit is yellow and lantern-shaped, measuring about 1 inch in diameter. The fruit is edible and has a sweet taste.
Care Guide
To care for Physalis Heterophylla, you need to consider the following factors:
Water: This plant requires moderate watering, and the soil should be kept evenly moist. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilization: Use a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season to promote healthy growth and fruiting.
Soil: The soil should be well-draining and fertile, with a pH of 6.0-7.0. It should be rich in organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure.
Sunlight: Physalis Heterophylla prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Hardiness Zones: This plant can grow in hardiness zones 5-9, which have an average minimum temperature of -20 to 20 degrees Fahrenheit.
Common Pests & Diseases
Physalis Heterophylla is susceptible to some pests and diseases, including:
Aphids: These small insects feed on the sap of the plant, causing leaves to curl, yellow, and drop. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control aphids.
Whiteflies: These small, winged insects feed on the underside of leaves, causing yellowing and stunted growth. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control whiteflies.
Botrytis: This fungal disease causes gray mold on leaves and fruit. Remove affected plant parts and apply a fungicide to prevent further spread.
Habitat
Physalis Heterophylla is native to North America and can be found in open woods, fields, and disturbed areas. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Physalis Heterophylla invasive?
A: No, this plant is not considered invasive and is generally easy to control.
Q: Can you eat the yellow fruit of Physalis Heterophylla?
A: Yes, the fruit is edible and has a sweet taste. It can be eaten raw or used in jams and pies.
Q: Does Physalis Heterophylla attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the flowers of this plant attract bees and other pollinators.
Q: How tall can Physalis Heterophylla grow?
A: This plant can grow up to 3 feet tall.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Physalis Heterophylla:
- Physalis Alkekengi
- Physalis Angulata
- Physalis Peruviana
- Physalis Pruinosa
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Physalis heterophylla. Retrieved July 22, 2021, from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b972
- University of Wisconsin-Madison Arboretum. (n.d.). Clammy ground cherry. Retrieved July 22, 2021, from https://arboretum.wisc.edu/trees-plants/tree_species/physalis-heterophylla/
- Pennsylvania State University. (n.d.). Ground cherry. Retrieved July 22, 2021, from https://extension.psu.edu/ground-cherry
