Cape gooseberry - Physalis peruviana (Care, Characteristics, Invasive, Images, Edible)

Cape gooseberry

Also known as: Physalis, Poha berry

Cape gooseberry (Physalis peruviana) is a perennial shrub species native to South America. This species has been cultivated by humans for a very long time, and can be traced to the Incan civilization. Cape gooseberry grows optimally in fertile, slightly acidic soil in full sun.

Scientific classification

Species

Cape gooseberry (Physalis peruviana)

Nightshades, bindweeds, gooseweeds, and allies

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Fall

Harvest Time

50 cm to 2 m

Plant Height

1 m to 1.5 m

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

1.5 cm to 2 cm

Flower Size

Orange

Fruit Color

Yellow, Purple, Green, Brown, Orange

Flower Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Cape gooseberry

Distribution of Cape gooseberry

Distribution Map

Cape gooseberry has a global distribution, native to parts of South America, and introduced to various regions on other continents, ranging from Europe, Asia, to Africa. Cultivation of cape gooseberry is widespread due to its valued uses, and it has settled in these non-native territories with varying influence. In certain areas, cape gooseberry may be considered invasive and could potentially affect local ecosystems, although specifics are not uniform across its introduced range. Overall, cape gooseberry continues to spread through both natural and human-assisted means.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Coastal regions and disturbed areas.

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Interesting Facts

Although edible, delicious, and rich in vitamins and various nutrients, the unripe fruit of cape gooseberry is mildly toxic. However, the entire plant is highly decorative and often used as an ornamental.

Name Story

Cape gooseberry||Peruvian ground-cherry||Peruvian groundcherry: Reportedly native to Peru, but introduced in Europe in the late 18th century, and a few decades later in South Africa and the Cape of Good Hope, Physalis peruviana has been referred to as cape gooseberry since the mid 19th century. It's also named ground cherry because of its low-growing habit, and golden cherry for its gold-yellow fruit.

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Toxicity

Cape gooseberry is moderately toxic to humans, cats, and dogs if ingested, with all parts of the plant being toxic except for the ripe fruit. Symptoms include gastrointestinal distress and neurological issues. Pet owners should prevent access to cape gooseberry and seek immediate veterinary care if poisoning is suspected to ensure proper treatment and recovery.

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Care Guide for Cape gooseberry

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Cape gooseberry thrives in moderate moisture, requiring consistent hydration without being waterlogged. It prefers well-drained soil and should be watered weekly. As an evergreen, it benefits from surrounding humidity to promote lush foliage throughout the year.

Fertilize: For optimal growth of cape gooseberry, fertilize biweekly with high phosphorus during flowering and use balanced nutrition before and after harvest. Adjust fertilizer use in colder months, and always water after fertilizing. Monitor cape gooseberry's response to refine care practices for best results.

Pruning: Cape gooseberry thrives with proper pruning, ideally in early to late spring. Remove dead or crossing branches and manage overly vigorous growth for better air circulation and fruit yield. Regular maintenance promotes health, prevents overcrowding, and reduces disease risk, ensuring a productive plant.

Propagation: Cape gooseberry, native to South America, is a fruit-bearing plant with high vitamin content. It thrives in well-draining soil and sunny spots, requiring regular moisture. Propagate by sowing seeds in a light seed mix, covering lightly for light exposure. Transplant once seedlings are established, providing ample space.

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Images of Cape gooseberry

Distribution of Cape gooseberry

Culture

Toxicity

Care Guide for Cape gooseberry

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