Sticky Ground Cherry
physalis viscosa
Also known as: ["Sticky Physalis","Sticky Ground Cherry"]
Overview
A herbaceous annual plant in the nightshade family, known for its sticky, glandular hairs and small, yellow flowers that develop into edible fruits enclosed in papery husks.
Benefits & Perks
["edible fruits","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Solanales |
| Family: | Solanaceae |
| Genus: | Physalis |
| Botanical Name: | Physalis viscosa |
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 waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually after flowering or every 2–3 years to rejuvenate.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate pruning to shape and thin overcrowded stems.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily). Tolerates light shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate new plants gradually to direct sun to avoid scorching. Protect from intense midday sun in hot regions. Indoors, place near a south-facing window with filtered light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains in intense sun; avoid direct afternoon sun in summer.
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, loamy soil with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use raised beds for better drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; topdress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers warm conditions (65–85°F or 18–29°C). Tolerates mild frosts but thrives in moderate warmth.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; ensure good air circulation in heat.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; stop feeding in dormant periods; use organic options like compost tea.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed. Stem cuttings are faster and more reliable.
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 the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F or 21–24°C), high humidity (70–80%), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus soil.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushier growth; cut back leggy stems to a healthy bud.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or diseased growth. Focus on post-flowering or early spring.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilized knife, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy or after flowering; remove dead/diseased parts; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot. Necessary to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Choose new pot with drainage; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water early morning; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, targeting the root zone. Ensure water penetrates deeply but excess drains away. Water in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water moderately during active growth (spring-summer), allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce frequency in fall-winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or wilting in extreme heat; stunted growth or leaf drop in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and may cause leaf discoloration or dieback. Prolonged cold can damage roots.
Solution: Move potted plants indoors or to a sheltered spot. Mulch around roots to insulate. Avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced fruiting. Plants may drop flowers or leaves.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid contact with leaves; flush soil occasionally.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring-summer). Avoid fertilizing in fall-winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats are susceptible to mild gastrointestinal and neurological effects if they ingest unripe fruits of Physalis viscosa. The ripe fruits are generally safe for feline consumption.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicDogs may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they consume unripe fruits of Physalis viscosa due to the presence of solanine and other glycoalkaloids. Ripe fruits are typically safe.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicPhysalis viscosa contains solanine and other glycoalkaloids, which can cause gastrointestinal distress and mild neurological effects when consumed in unripe fruits. The ripe fruits are generally considered safe for consumption.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Physalis viscosa edible?
A: The ripe fruits are edible and can be eaten raw or used in cooking, but the unripe fruits and other parts of the plant are mildly toxic.
Q: How do I grow Physalis viscosa?
A: Sow seeds in well-drained soil in full sun after the last frost. Water regularly but avoid overwatering to prevent rot.
Q: Does Physalis viscosa 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 |
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