Ground Cherry (Physalis hederaefolia cordifolia)

Family: Solanaceae | Edibility: Edible (2/5)

Physalis hederaefolia cordifolia is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.3 m (1ft). It is frost tender. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Fruit, Berries

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Late Summer, Fall

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Edible fruit - raw or cooked. The fruit can also be boiled in a small amount of water, crushed and used as a condiment. — Edible fruit - raw or cooked.; The fruit can also be boiled in a small amount of water, crushed and used as a condiment.; The plant conveniently wraps up each fruit in its own 'paper bag' (botanically, the calyx) to protect it from pests and the elements.; This calyx is toxic and should not be eaten.

Habitat & North American Range

Dry rocky and gravelly places, 1000 - 1600 metres in California. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)