Cutleaf Ground Cherry
Physalis angulatafam. Solonaceae
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Pl. 0D82 — Physalis angulata
Physalis angulataPhysalis angulataPhysalis angulataPhysalis angulataPhysalis angulataPhysalis angulataPhysalis angulataPhysalis angulataPhysalis angulataPhysalis angulataPhysalis angulataPhysalis angulataPhysalis angulataPhysalis angulata
IOverview
Overview
Cutleaf Ground Cherry (Physalis angulata) is an annual forb or herb native to a wide range of regions including Alabama, Argentina, Arizona, and various Caribbean islands. This plant thrives in moist conditions with light to partial sun exposure and can be found growing in soils ranging from sandy to clay. It typically reaches a height of 0.8 meters and is known for its edible fruit and leaves, making it both ornamental and useful as an edible plant. Its native range extends across Central and South America, the Caribbean, and parts of North America, showcasing its adaptability to diverse environments.
Quick answers
What is Cutleaf Ground Cherry?
Cutleaf Ground Cherry (Physalis angulata) is an annual forb or herb native to a wide range of regions including Alabama, Argentina, Arizona, and various Caribbean islands. This plant thrives in moist conditions with light to partial sun exposure and can be found growing in soils ranging from sandy to clay.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
The Cutleaf Ground Cherry thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). This annual plant grows up to 0.8 meters tall and can be propagated through seeds. It is hardy in temperate regions and is native to a wide range of locations including parts of North America, South America, and the Caribbean. Ensure the soil remains consistently moist for optimal growth, and enjoy its edible fruit and leaves.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Life cycle
Annual
Habit
Forb/herb
Mature size
0.8 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Cutleaf Ground Cherry for the first time
8steps
Start with Cutleaf Ground Cherry as an easy-to-grow annual for your garden.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds, small pots or trays, a sunny spot in the garden.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant seeds indoors about 6-8 weeks before the last frost date.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use well-draining soil with a mix of light (sandy), medium, or heavy clay. Ensure containers are at least 30 cm deep.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Start seeds indoors in small pots filled with seed starting mix. Transplant outdoors after all danger of frost has passed.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep the soil moist and provide partial shade to help young plants establish themselves.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water regularly, especially during dry spells. Fertilize lightly every 4-6 weeks with a balanced organic fertilizer.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune occasionally to encourage bushier growth and remove any dead leaves. Harvest the fruit when it turns bright orange.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy shade, neglecting regular pruning.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:FruitLeaves
Edible uses: The cutleaf ground cherry is edible and its fruit and leaves can be consumed. The fruit, which resembles small tomatoes with a sweet, tangy flavor, is often eaten raw or used in jams and preserves. Leaves are occasionally used fresh in salads or cooked as a vegetable. Both parts of the plant add a unique taste to dishes.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
30 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
30 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 30 native
Americas13 regions
native (13)BahamasBelizeBoliviaColombiaCosta RicaCubaEcuadorEl SalvadorFrench GuianaGuatemalaGuyanaHaitiJamaica
Broader regions
native:Argentina Northwest, Arizona, Aruba, Brazil North, Brazil Northeast, Brazil South, Brazil Southeast, Brazil West-Central, California, Cayman Is., Galápagos, Kentucky, Leeward Is., Mexico Central, Mexico Gulf, Mexico Northeast, Argentina Northeast
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
2 related
See also
2 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Solonaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Solonaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
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