Also known as Clammy Ground Cherry · Clammy Groundcherry · Wild Ground Cherry
Clammy Ground-Cherry (Physalis heterophylla) is a perennial herb with a wide native range, producing edible, lantern-like fruits.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Prefers full sun to partial shade
75% intensity
Provides the best flowering and fruiting. Tolerates some shade.
Regular watering is essential
50% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Adaptable to a range of temperatures
50% intensity
Tolerates heat well and is cold-hardy in many zones.
Moderate feeding is adequate
50% intensity
A balanced fertilizer applied sparingly in spring and summer.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | Yes |
Berries are edible when ripe. Unripe berries, leaves, and stems contain toxic compounds.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water regularly, especially during dry periods, to maintain consistently moist soil. Avoid waterlogged conditions, which can lead to root rot. Reduce watering in cooler months when the plant is less actively growing.
Check soil moisture by touching the surface.
Prune in early spring before new growth begins to manage size and shape. Remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches. Pruning can also encourage bushier growth. Minimal pruning is typically needed for this species.
Easily propagated from seed sown in spring, either directly outdoors or started indoors a few weeks prior. Division of established clumps in spring is another effective method. Cuttings can also be taken in early summer.
Repot young plants annually or as needed, usually in spring. Mature plants can be repotted every 2-3 years. Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one. Use well-draining potting mix.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Clammy Ground-Cherry (Physalis heterophylla)
Where Clammy Ground-Cherry (Physalis heterophylla) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Solanales |
| Family | Solanaceae |
| Genus | Physalis |
| Species | Physalis heterophylla |
Similar in genus Physalis
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
