Also known as Cape-Gooseberry · Downy Ground-Cherry · Downy Groundcherry
Husk Tomato (Physalis pubescens) is a fast-growing annual producing small, sweet, edible fruits enclosed in papery husks. Native to the Americas, it thrives in warm clima
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Requires at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and fruiting.
Consistent Moisture
50% intensity
Water when the top soil is dry, avoiding waterlogged conditions.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Warm
75% intensity
Thrives in temperatures between 21-30°C. Protect from frost.
Outdoor
50% intensity
Moderate Feeding
50% intensity
Fertilize monthly with a balanced or phosphorus-rich fertilizer after flowering begins.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | Yes |
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Husk tomatoes prefer consistent moisture. Water deeply when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot. In hot weather, you may need to water daily.
Mulching helps retain soil moisture and regulate temperature.
Pruning is generally not necessary for husk tomatoes. However, you can pinch back the growing tips to encourage a bushier plant, especially if it becomes leggy.
Remove any yellowing or diseased leaves promptly to maintain plant health and improve air circulation.
Husk tomatoes are easily grown from seed. Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost. Sow seeds about 0. 5 cm deep in a well-draining seed-starting mix.
Transplant seedlings outdoors after all danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed.
Husk tomatoes are typically grown as annuals in the ground or containers. If grown in containers, choose pots at least 30 cm in diameter.
Repot seedlings into larger containers if they become root-bound before transplanting them into their final growing location.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Husk Tomato (Physalis pubescens)
Where Husk Tomato (Physalis pubescens) 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 pubescens |
Similar in genus Physalis
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
