Contents
Description
Physalis Philadelphica is a herbaceous annual plant that is native to North America. It is commonly known as the tomatillo, husk tomato, or Mexican husk tomato. This plant is a member of the nightshade family (Solanaceae) and is widely cultivated for its edible fruit.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Solanales |
| Family | Solanaceae |
| Genus | Physalis |
Appearance
The Physalis Philadelphica plant grows up to 1 meter tall and has a spread of about 0.5 meters. The leaves are large, ovate, and slightly hairy. The flowers are small, yellow, and bell-shaped. The fruit of the plant is a round, green, papery husk that surrounds a small, yellowish-green berry.
Care Guide
To care for the Physalis Philadelphica plant, it is important to provide it with adequate water, fertilization, soil, sunlight, and to ensure it is in the appropriate hardiness zone.Water: This plant prefers evenly moist soil, so it is important to water it regularly, especially during hot and dry weather.Fertilization: Use a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season to promote healthy growth and fruit production.Soil: The Physalis Philadelphica plant prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5.Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun, but can also tolerate partial shade.Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Physalis Philadelphica plant is susceptible to a few common pests and diseases, including:- Aphids: These insects can cause damage to the plant by feeding on its sap. They can be controlled using insecticidal soap or neem oil.- Whiteflies: These insects can cause damage to the plant by feeding on its sap and spreading diseases. They can be controlled using insecticidal soap or neem oil.- Fusarium Wilt: This disease can cause wilting and yellowing of the leaves. It can be controlled by removing infected plants and improving soil drainage.
Habitat
The Physalis Philadelphica plant is native to North America and can be found growing in a variety of habitats, including open fields, roadsides, and disturbed areas. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the fruit of the Physalis Philadelphica plant be eaten?
A: Yes, the fruit of the plant is edible and is commonly used in Mexican cuisine.
Q: What is the best time to plant Physalis Philadelphica?
A: Physalis Philadelphica should be planted in the spring after the last frost.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Physalis Philadelphica plant?
A: Use a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season to promote healthy growth and fruit production.
Q: How tall can the Physalis Philadelphica plant grow?
A: The plant can grow up to 1 meter tall.
Related Plants
– Physalis Alkekengi (Chinese Lantern)- Physalis Angulata (Cutleaf Groundcherry)- Physalis Crassifolia (Thickleaf Groundcherry)- Physalis Heterophylla (Clammy Groundcherry)- Physalis Longifolia (Longleaf Groundcherry)
References
– USDA Plants Database: https://plants.usda.gov/home- Missouri Botanical Garden: http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/- Royal Horticultural Society: https://www.rhs.org.uk/
