Carpenter's groundcherry
Physalis carpenteri
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Pl. 2848 — Physalis carpenteri
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IOverview
Overview
Carpenter's groundcherry (Physalis carpenteri) is an annual plant native to the southeastern United States, specifically Alabama, Florida, Louisiana, and Mississippi. Known for its edible fruit, it thrives in full sun with moist soil that can range from light sandy to heavy clay. This plant is adaptable to various soil types but prefers medium conditions. Its distinctive feature lies in its ornamental value as well as its culinary use, making it a useful addition to gardens or landscapes where its vibrant flowers and edible fruit can be appreciated.
Quick answers
What is Carpenter's groundcherry?
Carpenter's groundcherry (Physalis carpenteri) is an annual plant native to the southeastern United States, specifically Alabama, Florida, Louisiana, and Mississippi. Known for its edible fruit, it thrives in full sun with moist soil that can range from light sandy to heavy clay.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Carpenter's groundcherry thrives in full sun and prefers moist, well-draining soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). This annual plant is native to Alabama, Florida, Louisiana, and Mississippi, making it adaptable to similar climates. Ensure the soil remains consistently moist for best fruit production. While hardiness isn't specified, this plant should perform well in temperate regions. Propagate through seeds sown directly in the garden after all danger of frost has passed.
Light
Full sun
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Life cycle
Annual
For first-time growers
How to grow Carpenter's groundcherry for the first time
8steps
Start with easy-to-grow Carpenter's groundcherry for a rewarding beginner gardening experience.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds or seedlings, small pots if starting indoors, garden soil, watering can.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant after the last frost in spring when temperatures are consistently above 60°F (15°C).
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use well-draining soil with a mix of light, medium, or heavy texture. Ensure containers have drainage holes.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Start seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost or directly sow outdoors in warm weather. Transplant seedlings after danger of frost passes.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged. Provide light shade if direct sun is too intense.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, especially during hot weather. Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune occasionally to encourage bushier growth but avoid cutting back heavily. Harvest fruit when it turns a rich color and is slightly soft.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting too deep, neglecting regular pruning, not providing enough support for vines.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Fruit
Edible uses: The carpenter's groundcherry is edible and its fruit can be eaten raw or cooked. The fruits are often used in jams and preserves due to their sweet taste. They can also be dried for later use. Skip the invention of recipes; focus on these basic preparation methods.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
4 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
4 native · 0 introducedDistribution across0 continents· 4 native
Broader regions
native:Alabama, Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
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Companion planting
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 28489dc7-e3ce-4d4f-8461-f10eeca4b697
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