Contents
Description
Physalis Longifolia, commonly known as Longleaf Groundcherry, is a herbaceous plant that belongs to the Nightshade family. This perennial plant is native to North America and can grow up to 2 feet tall. The plant produces bright yellow flowers in the summer, followed by edible berries that are enclosed in a papery husk.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Solanales |
| Family | Solanaceae |
| Genus | Physalis |
Appearance
Longleaf Groundcherry has green leaves that are oval-shaped and slightly toothed. The plant’s stem is covered in fine hairs, and it has a branching habit. The bright yellow flowers of the plant are bell-shaped and grow in clusters. The fruit of the plant is a small, round berry that is yellow in color and enclosed in a papery husk. The plant blooms in summer and produces fruit in late summer to early fall.
Care Guide
Longleaf Groundcherry is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. Here are some care tips:
Water
The plant prefers well-draining soil and moderate watering. Water the plant deeply once or twice a week during dry periods.
Fertilization
Longleaf Groundcherry does not require regular fertilization. However, you can add a slow-release fertilizer in the spring to boost growth.
Soil
The plant prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. You can amend the soil with organic matter before planting to improve drainage and fertility.
Sunlight
The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but it may produce fewer flowers and fruit.
Hardiness Zones
The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Longleaf Groundcherry is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to the following:
Pests
- Aphids
- Spider mites
- Cutworms
Diseases
- Fungal leaf spot
- Root rot
- Verticillium wilt
Habitat
Longleaf Groundcherry is native to North America and can be found in dry, rocky, or sandy soils in prairies, meadows, and open woods. The plant is commonly found in the eastern and central parts of the United States, from Maine to Florida and west to Texas.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Longleaf Groundcherry be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Longleaf Groundcherry can be grown in containers. Make sure the container has good drainage and use a well-draining potting mix.
Q: How often should Longleaf Groundcherry be pruned?
A: Longleaf Groundcherry does not require regular pruning. However, you can remove dead or damaged branches in the spring to promote new growth.
Q: Is Longleaf Groundcherry deer-resistant?
A: Yes, Longleaf Groundcherry is deer-resistant.
Q: How long does it take for Longleaf Groundcherry to produce fruit?
A: Longleaf Groundcherry produces fruit in late summer to early fall, approximately 80-90 days after planting.
Related Plants
- Physalis angulata
- Physalis alkekengi
- Physalis ixocarpa
References
- “Physalis Longifolia.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 25 May 2021. <http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/plantfinder/plantdetails.aspx?kempercode=c920>.
- “Physalis Longifolia.” North Carolina State University. Accessed 25 May 2021. <https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/all/physalis-longifolia/>.
- “Longleaf Ground Cherry.” Illinois Wildflowers. Accessed 25 May 2021. <https://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/prairie/plantx/ll_groundchx.htm>.
