Description

General aspect and origins - Physalis peruviana, the Cape gooseberry, is a herbaceous perennial plant that originates from South America, and more precisely from Chile and Peru. It may reach 5 ft (1.5 m) but generally tops to 3 ft. (1 m)
Leaves - The foliage of the Cape gooseberry is velvety, heart-shaped, and may reach 6 in (15cm) long.
Flowers - The yellow flowers of the Cape gooseberry are generally .75 in (2 cm) wide, and have brown spots on the inner face of the petals.
Fruits - The Cape gooseberry is a rounded berry that may reach .75 in (2 cm) wide, with a golden to orange skin. It has a juicy flesh that contains many tiny seeds. This fruit has a pleasing and complex taste, that reminds of pineapple. The fruit is protected by a brown husk.
The Cape gooseberry is eaten fresh, or processed into jams, or into many different preparations.

Culture

The Cape gooseberry is frost hardy to 26°F to 28°F (-2°C to -3°C), and may be grown in USDA zones 9b and warmer.
Soil - The cape gooseberry will grow in well-drained soils.

Propagation

Even though Physalis peruviana cuttings easily roots, the Cape gooseberry is generally propagated by seeds.
A single fruit contains numerous tiny seeds.

Pests and diseases

This plant is susceptible to white flies, especially when grown under glass.