Sticky Ground Cherry (Physalis viscosa)

Family: Solanaceae | Edibility: Choice Edible (4/5)

Physalis viscosa is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.6 m (2ft). It is frost tender. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) 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

pleasant sub-acid cherry-like flavour. — Edible fruit - raw or cooked.; Juicy and thin-skinned with a pleasant sub-acid cherry-like flavour.Said to be the best N.; American species.; The plant conveniently wraps up each fruit in its own 'paper bag' (botanically, the calyx) to protect it from pests and the elements.

Habitat & North American Range

Coastal sand dunes, sandy woods near the coast, pinelands and prairies. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)