Physalis pubescens

'Hairy Groundcherry'

Solanaceae: an annual herb producing a glandular, densely hairy stem up to about 60cm. Found damp to dry open woods, sand dunes and disturbed soil. The flowers blooming from the leaf axils are bell-shaped and about a centimetre long. They are yellow with five dark spots in the throats and have five stamens tipped with blue anthers. Fruit develops, becoming an inflated, ribbed, lanternlike structure 2–4cm long which contains a sweet tasting green berry. The oval or heart-shaped leaves are 3–9cm long and have smooth or toothed edges. Native to the southern half of the United States, Mexico, Central and much of South America.

USES:

The fruit as delicious bitter sweet flavour. Can be used in pies, preserves, and fruit cakes.

The whole plant has antipyretic, depurative, diuretic, pectoral, vermifuge properties. A decoction is used in the treatment of abscesses, coughs, fevers, and sore throat.

GROWING INFORMATION:

Surface sow seeds in late summer or early spring. These seeds germinate rapidly depending on species and origin. If germination does not occur after 3–4 weeks a cooling period of 2–4 weeks is recommended. GA3 hormone or gibberellic acid can help with germination. Plant out before plants start to flower, any later and you will stunt their growth. Prefers a sunny position and a well-drained soil.

 

HARVESTED: 2018

APPROX. 50+ SEEDS