Overview
Physalis philadelphica 'Violet Tomatillo' (F) is a bushy, spreading herbaceous perennial in the genus Physalis, part of the Solanaceae family, with green foliage. Physalis philadelphica 'Violet Tomatillo' (F) grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. Suggested uses include edible fruit and ornamental.
About
Physalis philadelphica 'Violet Tomatillo' is a bushy, spreading cultivar of the Physalis genus, which includes both annuals and rhizomatous perennials with simple or pinnately lobed foliage. This cultivar features green leaves and produces small, bell-shaped flowers in the leaf axils, followed by edible, ornamental berries enclosed in enlarged calyces. It thrives in full sun on a south-facing, sheltered aspect, preferring well-drained, neutral loam soil. Hardy to UK zone H4, it is best planted after the last frost and can be propagated by seed or division, with interest mainly in spring and summer.
About the genus
Physalis is a genus of approximately 75 to 90 flowering plants in the nightshade family (Solanaceae), which are native to the Americas and Australasia. At least 46 species are endemic to Mexico. Cultivated and weedy species have been introduced worldwide.
Wikipedia contributors, "Physalis", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Physalis
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Physalis
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Loam
- Soil pH
- Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H4
Plant details
Physalis philadelphica 'Violet Tomatillo' (F) size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Herbaceous Perennial
- Habit
- Bushy, Spreading
- Foliage
- Green
- Suggested uses
- Edible fruit, Ornamental
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Physalis philadelphica 'Violet Tomatillo' (F)
- Propagation
- Seed, Division
- Pest resistance
- Moderate
- Disease resistance
- Moderate
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Physalis philadelphica 'Violet Tomatillo' (F)?
Physalis philadelphica 'Violet Tomatillo' (F) prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Physalis philadelphica 'Violet Tomatillo' (F) need?
Physalis philadelphica 'Violet Tomatillo' (F) grows best in loam soil. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.
Is Physalis philadelphica 'Violet Tomatillo' (F) hardy in the UK?
Physalis philadelphica 'Violet Tomatillo' (F) has an RHS hardiness rating of H4, meaning it is hardy through an average UK winter, tolerating -10 to -5°C.
How do I propagate Physalis philadelphica 'Violet Tomatillo' (F)?
Seed, Division.
