Hairy Ground Cherry
physalis pubescens
Also known as: ["Hairy Cape Gooseberry","Velvety Ground Cherry"]
Overview
A herbaceous annual plant in the nightshade family, known for its small, edible fruits enclosed in papery husks.
Benefits & Perks
["edible fruits","fast growing","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Solanales |
| Family: | Solanaceae |
| Genus: | Physalis |
| Botanical Name: | Physalis pubescens |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Fruits
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed or container in a sunny spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter; cactus mix can work well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done after fruiting.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning during flowering or fruiting.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade but may produce fewer fruits.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates; ensure adequate airflow to prevent sunburn.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plants for even light exposure; use shade cloth in extreme heat; avoid direct sun on leaves during peak hours.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with moderate organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use raised beds for better drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter annually.
Temperature
Warm temperatures (65–85°F/18–29°C); thrives in summer heat; sensitive to frost.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; ensure good air circulation in hot weather.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Dilute fertilizer to half strength; apply to moist soil to prevent root burn; avoid fertilizing newly transplanted plants.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seeds; stem cuttings root easily in warm conditions.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is active.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F/21–24°C), high humidity, and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix (e.g., perlite and peat moss) or sandy soil.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 2–4 weeks; establish in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
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 bushier growth; cut stems just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or overcrowded stems to improve air circulation and fruit production.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged stems; shape for airflow; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for container-grown plants.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare new soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wet foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure even moisture without waterlogging; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or wilting in extreme heat; leaf drop or stunted growth in cold.
Cold Stress
Growth halts below 50°F/10°C; prolonged cold can damage roots and stems.
Solution: Move potted plants indoors before frost; use row covers for in-ground plants; ensure well-draining soil to prevent cold waterlogging.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced fruit set in excessive heat (>90°F/32°C).
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 balanced liquid fertilizer (10-10-10) every 4–6 weeks during growing season; reduce or stop in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may suffer mild gastrointestinal issues if they ingest unripe fruits of Physalis pubescens. The ripe fruits are generally non-toxic to cats.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten unripe
Dogs
Slightly ToxicDogs may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they consume unripe fruits of Physalis pubescens due to the presence of solanine. Ripe fruits are typically safe.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten unripe
Humans
Slightly ToxicPhysalis pubescens, commonly known as husk tomato or ground cherry, contains solanine in its unripe fruits, which can cause mild gastrointestinal distress. The ripe fruits are generally safe for consumption.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten unripe
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are the fruits of Physalis pubescens edible?
A: Yes, the ripe fruits are edible and have a sweet, tropical flavor.
Q: How should Physalis pubescens be propagated?
A: It is typically propagated by seeds, which can be sown directly in the garden after the last frost.
Q: Does Physalis pubescens require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Solanaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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