Physalis - Ground Cherry - Cape Gooseberry

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Ground Cherry Seeds (Physalis pruinosa) | Sweet Garden Berry Seeds | Husk Cherry | Easy to Grow HeirloomPhysalis pruinosaListing is for 1 packet minimum of 30 seedsThere are a lot of names for this tropical berry. Names include ground cherry, cape gooseberry, Husk Tomato, Goldenberry, Aztec Berry, Peruvian Groundcherry, Inca Berry, Giant Ground Cherry, Peruvian Cherry, Coztomate, Pogapoga, Coztomatl, Topotopo, and poha berry. In sum, these berries belong to the genus physalis and there are different cultivars. Physalis berries are native to South America but can be found growing in Hawaii and the coasts of the United States. Flavor reminds me of a mix of pineapple, banana, and strawberry. I like to harvest the berries when the husk that surrounds them is completely dried out and papery. Another indicator that the fruit is ready to harvest is when the berry falls to the ground, hence the name ground cherry. Berries are high in vitamin C and compounds that increase energy. I love to grow physalis because it is a perennial crop in warmer climates. They are pretty easy to grow and low maintenance. They will even survive and fruit in our hot tropical Florida summers provided they get afternoon shade. HOW TO SOW THE SEEDSGermination & Sowing: ****Please note: the seed requires exposure to light in order to germinate.**** I sprinkle the seeds on the soil surface and just barely press them down. Do not cover with soil. To speed up germination I recommend using a heat mat and grow lights if you have some. I like to use the inexpensive 4 foot long 5000 lumens shop lights from Walmart (cost around $15). If you don't have grow lights, just make sure to put in a spot that gets a lot of sunlight. It can take around 20 days to germinate and that is completely normal. Seed Sowing Depth: barely press seeds on the surface of the soil and do not cover with soil Show more