About
A lax, branching annual with serrated leaves maturing to 1.2m tall and wide. Yellow summer flowers with brown centres are followed by rounded edible fruit to 7cm in diameter surrounded by a thin, paper-like husk; fruits ripen from green to yellow or purple.
About the genus
Physalis can be annuals or rhizomatous perennials with simple or pinnately lobed leaves and small bell-shaped flowers in the leaf axils, followed by fleshy, sometimes edible, yellow, red or purple berries, enclosed in enlarged, often colourful, calyces
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeLoam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectWest-facing, South-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH2
Plant details
Plant typeConservatory Greenhouse, Annual Biennial, Fruit Edible
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height1-1.5 metres
Spread1-1.5 metres
Time to full height1-2 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants
Care notes
CultivationSow seed indoors in early spring. Grow on in a cool greenhouse, or outdoors in milder areas once all risk of frost has passed. Needs well-drained soil in a sunny position and support for the lax branches. Feed every 10-14 days with a balanced liquid fertiliser before switching to a high potassium liquid feed once the first fruits have set
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed
Pest resistanceGenerally problem free
Disease resistanceGenerally problem free