Yellow nightshade groundcherry

Yellow nightshade groundcherry, Physalis crassifolia, is a perennial subshrub or herb found in the arid and semi-arid regions of New Mexico and surrounding states. This plant thrives in full sun with varying soil types—ranging from light sandy to heavy clay—and can tolerate both dry and moist conditions. Known for its edible fruit, it has adapted well to the native range including parts of Arizona, California, Nevada, and northern and southwestern Mexico. One distinctive feature is its light green foliage and small yellow flowers that give way to unique, papery husks enclosing the sweet, cherry-like fruits.