Position

Sun exposure:
Dappled shade, full sun
Aspect:
South facing, west facing

Soil

Prefers rich soil:
Well Drained / Light / Sandy

A close relative of the familiar garden perennial, Chinese lantern (Physalis alkekengi), cape gooseberry or Inca berry (Physalis peruviana) is widely cultivated in many warmer parts of the world and will succeed in gardens if grown like outdoor tomatoes. Each cape gooseberry plant can produce up to a kilo of fruit, which is sweet and refreshing with a high Vitamin C content, and will store in a warm dry place for several weeks.

Grow Physalis peruviana in pots in the conservatory or greenhouse, or outside in a sheltered sunny spot. Plants may be kept as perennials, but seedlings are often more productive.

Plant calendar

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Sowyesyes
Plantyesyes
Flowersyesyesyes

Physalis and wildlife

Physalis has no particular known value to wildlife in the UK.

Is Physalis poisonous?

Physalis has no toxic effects reported.

No reported toxicity to:
Is not known to attract Birds
Birds
Is not known to attract Cats
Cats
Is not known to attract Dogs
Dogs
Is not known to attract Horses
Horses
Is not known to attract Livestock
Livestock
Is not known to attract People
People
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