Solanaceae
Groundcherry (genus)
Physalis
Plant in full sun. Water every 5–7 days, allowing the top inch of soil to dry between waterings. Fertilize monthly during the growing season. Most species are annuals in cold climates but perennials in zones 8–11.
Every 6 days
Bright indirect
5° - 35°C
40% - 70%
Categories
What is Groundcherry (genus)?
Groundcherry (genus) (Physalis) is a easy-care plant from the Solanaceae family. Physalis is a large genus of the nightshade family (Solanaceae) comprising over 100 species, including the cape gooseberry (P. peruviana), tomatillo (P. ixocarpa), and Chinese lantern (P. alkekengi). All species produce fruit enclosed in a papery husk (calyx), the genus's hallmark trait. They thrive...
Groundcherry (genus) grows up to 1.2m, with spread of 90cm, watering every 6 days, 5°C – 35°C, 40–70% humidity. It is not suitable for indoor environments and not safe for pets.
Unlike many tropical plants, Groundcherry (genus) tolerates watering mistakes. Best for beginners. Without precautions, ingestion can cause irritation in pets. Keep out of reach of cats and dogs.
How to Care for Groundcherry (genus)?
TLDR: Groundcherry (genus) needs Bright indirect, watering every 6 days, and temperatures between 5-35°C with 40-70% humidity.
How Often Should You Water Groundcherry (genus)?
Water every 5–7 days. Allow the topsoil to dry slightly between waterings. Overwatering promotes root rot. Reduce frequency after fruit set.
How Much Light Does Groundcherry (genus) Need?
Requires full sun (at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day) for best fruit production. In partial shade, growth is possible but fruiting is reduced.
What Is the Best Soil for Groundcherry (genus)?
Prefers well-draining, slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6.0–7.5). Amend with compost before planting.
Care Schedule
Fertilize
Every 14 days
Misting
Every 3 days
Rotate
Every 7 days
Repot
Every 365 days
What Is Groundcherry (genus) and Where Does It Come From?
Physalis is a large genus of the nightshade family (Solanaceae) comprising over 100 species, including the cape gooseberry (P. peruviana), tomatillo (P. ixocarpa), and Chinese lantern (P. alkekengi). All species produce fruit enclosed in a papery husk (calyx), the genus's hallmark trait. They thrive in full sun with well-draining soil and are easy to grow.
How Big Does Groundcherry (genus) Grow?
TLDR: Groundcherry (genus) can reach up to 1.2m tall with Fast growth rate.
Max height
1.2m
Spread
90cm
Growth rate
Fast
Warning: Toxic Plant
This plant can be toxic if ingested. Keep out of reach of:
Plant Uses
Edible
Can be consumed
Ornamental
Great for decoration
Medicinal Uses
- traditional herbal use in some South American species
Culinary Uses
- ripe fruits eaten fresh or used in jams, salsas, pies, and desserts
Is your plant showing symptoms?
Click on the symptom to discover possible causes:
What Diseases Commonly Affect Groundcherry (genus)?
TLDR: Groundcherry (genus) is susceptible to 5 known diseases. Monitor regularly for early detection.
Aphids
Aphids are small, soft-bodied, pear-shaped insects (1/16 to 1/8 inch long) that feed by sucking nutrient-rich sap from plants. They reproduce rapidly and can quickly weaken plants, causing distorted growth and transmitting plant viruses. Aphids come in various colors including green, black, red, yellow, brown, and gray. They secrete honeydew, a sticky substance that attracts ants and encourages sooty mold growth.
Whiteflies
Whiteflies are small, soft-bodied, winged insects closely related to aphids and mealybugs. They are moth-like in appearance, about 1/16 inch long, triangular in shape, and gray-white in color. These sap-sucking pests feed on plant tissue, causing yellowing, stunted growth, and wilting. They also excrete honeydew, which attracts ants and promotes sooty mold growth. Whiteflies can transmit serious plant viruses.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny arachnids (less than 1/20 inch long) related to spiders and ticks that feed on plant sap. They thrive in hot, dry conditions and can cause significant damage to ornamental and vegetable plants. During severe infestations, crop losses can reach 14% or higher as these pests disrupt vital plant processes including photosynthesis, carbon dioxide absorption, and transpiration.
Powdery Mildew
Powdery mildew is a common fungal disease caused by various fungi species including Erysiphe, Podosphaera, Oïdium, and Leveillula. It affects over 10,000 plant species worldwide. The disease thrives in warm, dry climates with high humidity and appears as a distinctive white powdery coating on plant surfaces.
Fun Facts
The cape gooseberry (P. peruviana) is native to the Andes and now cultivated worldwide as "golden berry".
The Chinese lantern (P. alkekengi) is prized for its ornamental orange-red papery husks used in dried floral arrangements.
Tomatillo (P. ixocarpa) is the essential ingredient in Mexican salsa verde.
All green/unripe parts of Physalis contain solanine; only fully ripe fruits of edible species are safe to eat.
Frequently asked questions
Are Physalis fruits toxic?
Is Physalis annual or perennial?
How often should I water Physalis?
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| Peace Lily | Easy | Low light | 4d | ⚠️ |
| Swiss Cheese Plant | Easy | Partial shade | 10d | ⚠️ |
| Golden Pothos | Easy | Low light | 8d | ⚠️ |
| ZZ Plant | Easy | Low light | 18d | ⚠️ |
