Prairie Ground Cherry (Physalis pumila)

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

Physalis pumila 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 cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Fruit, Berries

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Late Summer, Fall

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Fruit - raw or cooked. 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. — Fruit - raw or cooked.; 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 open slopes on plains and prairies. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)