50 PERUVIAN GROUND CHERRY Physalis Peruviana Cape Gooseberry Fruit Veggie Seeds

Description:
Name: Peruvian Ground Cherry
Other common names: Goldenberry, Poha Berry, Cape Gooseberry, Inca Berry, Aztec Berry, Giant Ground Cherry
Scientific name: Physalis Peruviana
Color: Bright yellow orange fruit
Plant seeds: At 70 – 85°F
Bloom time: Flowers from July to October
Harvest: Fruit from August to November
Hardiness zone: 6 – 11
Plant height: 18 – 24 inches
Plant spacing: 12 – 24 inches
Light requirements: Sun
Soil & water preferences: Average to dry
Quantity: 50 seeds

About this item:
The Peruvian Ground Cherry is a small shrub originally native to South America. The fruit is edible and now grown commercially in various regions including South America and South Africa. The fruit is very rare in stores and can be costly, making it a valuable plant to grow at home. The edible fruit, about the size of a cherry tomato, is sweet with a hint of tart and has a flavor that combines notes of tomato, pineapple, and strawberry. It can be consumed raw, added to salads, canned, made into jams and pies, or dried for later use.

The Peruvian Ground Cherry is related to the tomatillo and Chinese lantern and has a similar appearance. It features a poisonous husk that must be removed before consumption. The fruit is colloquially known in French as ‘amour en cage,’ which translates to ‘love in a cage.’ This plant is fast-growing and can be grown as an annual or a perennial, in the ground or in containers. It adapts well to various soil types, including sandy or heavy clay soils, and tolerates some shade. The shrub is highly ornamental, featuring heart-shaped leaves, spring flowers, brightly colored fruits, and interesting seed pods.