Cape Gooseberry, Ground Cherry, Winter Cherry
physalis angulata
Also known as: ["Angled Ground Cherry","Carambola de San Juan","Golden Berry"]
Overview
A herbaceous annual plant native to warm regions of the Americas, known for its small, edible fruits enclosed in papery husks.
Benefits & Perks
["edible fruits","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","disease resistant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Solanales |
| Family: | Solanaceae |
| Genus: | Physalis |
| Botanical Name: | Physalis angulata |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Fruits
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in warm climates, or container in cooler regions
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning can be done throughout the growing season; major pruning in late winter or early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to control size or shape.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily, with some afternoon shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; move outdoors in spring/summer for optimal light.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure good drainage; adjust based on season and growth stage.
Soil
well-draining, fertile loam with added organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, pH 6.0–7.0.
Use a mix of potting soil and perlite; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Warm temperatures, ideally 70–85°F (21–29°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in tropical to subtropical conditions.
Protect from frost; ensure good air circulation; adjust watering with temperature changes.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
Dilute fertilizer to half strength; apply to moist soil; stop fertilizing when plant is dormant.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seeds; stem cuttings are faster and more reliable.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain temperatures around 70–75°F (21–24°C).
Medium
Well-draining potting mix, such as a mix of peat, perlite, and sand.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to speed up root development.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips to encourage branching; trim back leggy stems; remove any dead or yellowing foliage.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased stems.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilized scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during active growth; remove dead/diseased parts; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for young plants to encourage growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare new soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal diseases. Water early in the day to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water moderately, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or cessation of flowering in extreme heat or cold; yellowing or browning of leaves.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop, and can lead to frost damage if temperatures drop below 32°F (0°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location; use frost cloth for protection; reduce watering in cold periods.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced fruit production due to excessive heat and water loss.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute correctly; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring to fall); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats are sensitive to solanine found in unripe Physalis angulata fruits, which can lead to mild gastrointestinal and neurological symptoms. Ripe fruits are generally safe for cats in small quantities.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten unripe
Dogs
Slightly ToxicDogs may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they consume unripe fruits of Physalis angulata due to the presence of solanine. Ripe fruits are typically safe for dogs in moderation.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten unripe
Humans
Slightly ToxicPhysalis angulata, commonly known as angular groundcherry, contains solanine in its unripe fruits, which can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and other symptoms upon ingestion. The ripe fruits are generally considered safe for consumption.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten unripe
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Physalis angulata edible?
A: Yes, the fruits are edible when ripe, but the leaves and unripe fruits are mildly toxic.
Q: How do I grow Physalis angulata?
A: Sow seeds in well-drained soil after the last frost, in full sun to partial shade, and keep the soil consistently moist.
Q: Does Physalis angulata attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its flowers and fruits.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Solanaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
