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Physalis

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For the software framework, see Physalis (software).
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iPhysalis
Image:Gooseberry flower.jpg
Physalis peruviana in flower
Scientific classification
Kingdom: Plantae
Division: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Solanales
Family: Solanaceae
Genus: Physalis
L.
Species

About 80, see text

Physalis is a genus of plants in the nightshade family Solanaceae, native to warm temperate and subtropical regions throughout the world. The genus is characterised by the small orange fruit similar in size, shape and structure to a small tomato, but partly or fully enclosed in a large papery husk derived from the calyx.

They are herbaceous plants growing to 0.4-3 m tall, similar to the common tomato but usually with a stiffer, more upright stem; they can be either annual or perennial. They require full sun and fairly warm to hot temperatures. Some species are sensitive to frost, though others, such as P. alkekengi, tolerate severe cold when dormant in winter.

Contents

[edit] Cultivation and uses

Image:Physalis.jpg

These plants grow in most soil types and do very well in poor soils and in pots. They need lots of water throughout the growing year, except towards fruit-ripening time. Plants are susceptible to many of the same diseases and pests as the tomato. Propagation is by seed.

Its uses are similar to the common tomato or to a fruit. Ground cherries can be eaten raw, in salads, desserts, as a flavoring, and in jams and jellies. The fruits are excellent when dipped in chocolate, and can be dried and eaten. It is also often used as an herbal remedy for sore throats. The flavor of Physalis peruviana, also known as the Cape Gooseberry, is a unique tomato/pineapple-like blend. It is native to North, Central and South America, but is commonly grown in many subtropical areas including South Africa. The other most commonly-seen type in commerce is the tomatillo (P. philadelphica).

Some species are also grown as ornamental plants, with P. alkekengi popular for its large, bright orange to red husks.

[edit] Other names

  • Cape Gooseberry
  • Groundcherry
  • Uchuva (Colombia)
  • Winter-cherry

[edit] Exporter countries

[edit] Species

Image:Illustration Physalis alkekengi0.jpg

[edit] See also

[edit] External links

es:Physalis fr:Physalis lt:Dumplūnė nl:Lampionplant (geslacht) pt:Physalis ro:Physalis ru:Физалис sv:Lyktörter zh:酸浆属

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