Sharpleaf groundcherry
Physalis wrightii
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Pl. 73BE — Physalis wrightii
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IOverview
Overview
Sharpleaf groundcherry, scientifically known as Physalis wrightii, is an annual forb or herb native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It thrives in habitats such as Arizona, California, Louisiana, and various regions of Mexico. This plant is valued for its edible fruit, which can be enjoyed fresh or used in culinary applications. Sharpleaf groundcherry prefers full sun, moist conditions, and a variety of soil types including light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay). Standing at about 1 meter tall, it stands out with its distinctive sharp leaves, setting it apart from other members of the nightshade family.
Quick answers
What is Sharpleaf groundcherry?
Sharpleaf groundcherry, scientifically known as Physalis wrightii, is an annual forb or herb native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It thrives in habitats such as Arizona, California, Louisiana, and various regions of Mexico.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Sharpleaf groundcherry thrives in full sun and prefers moist soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It grows as an annual to a height of 1 meter and can be propagated through seeds. This plant is native to regions including Arizona, California, Louisiana, and various parts of Mexico, making it adaptable to similar climates in temperate zones. Ensure the soil remains consistently moist for optimal growth.
Light
Full sun
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Life cycle
Annual
Habit
Forb/herb
Mature size
1.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Sharpleaf groundcherry for the first time
8steps
Start with simple soil and full sun, and you'll have a good chance of success.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds or seedlings, garden tools, compost.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost, when soil is warm.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a spot with light to medium soil that drains well. Amend with compost if needed.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds 1 cm deep after the last frost, or start indoors 4 weeks before planting out.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged. Mulch around plants to retain moisture.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide support for vines as they grow. Water deeply once a week, more often in dry spells.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune occasionally to encourage bushier growth and remove dead leaves. Harvest fruit when it turns golden brown.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting too deep, neglecting support for vines.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Fruit
Edible uses: The fruit of the sharpleaf groundcherry is edible and can be eaten raw or used in various preparations. Typically, it is consumed fresh but can also be dried for later use. Skip preparing recipes; simply enjoy its light, sun-loving nature in your garden.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
8 native · 4 introduced
Distribution
8 native · 4 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 8 native· 4 introduced
Asia1 region
introduced (1)South Korea
Broader regions
native:Mexico Southwest, New Mexico, Texas, Arizona, California, Louisiana, Mexico Northeast, Mexico Northwest
introduced:Missouri, North Carolina, Alabama
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
XII
About this entry
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 73bed2b2-df5d-4648-9826-2a1d483a7772
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