Physalis peruviana
Common Name: Family: Solanaceae

Native to Peru, this plant is not a true gooseberry. A perennial cultivated as an annual, it can live for three years in frost-free climates but should be cut down after each crop. It grows to around 90 cm (36 in) tall and to a width of 1.5 m (5 ft), and produces a rounded yellow berry, surrounded by a papery covering. The fruit is used in jams, eaten fresh or stewed.

Varieties

There are several varieties; check the seed catalogues.

Cultivation

The Cape gooseberry is generally grown as a summer annual in a cool greenhouse. Seeds are sown during spring in seed trays or pots and germinated in warmth. The seedlings are potted up into small pots and then eventually planted 75 cm (30 in) apart in a soil border, or put into 25 cm (10 in) pots. Pinch out young plants to create bushy specimens. Provide canes for support. Feed during the summer with a tomato fertilizer and carry out moderate watering. Where summers are very warm or hot grow in a sunny spot in the garden.

Climate

Zone 10, but grown as a summer annual in all climates.