Physalis peruvina. C20

Origin and Description:

Physalis peruviana, also known as Chinese lantern, Cape gooseberry, and Peruvian ground cherry, is a perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the Physalis genus of the Solanaceae family. Native to the Far East, this plant has ascending stems that can reach up to one meter in height. Its leaves are velvety-textured, wavy, and ovate or sub-heart-shaped. During the summer, it produces small white flowers, but it's its fruits wrapped in a red calyx that stand out, giving it the appearance of a lantern.

 History:

The Physalis genus comprises around 90 species mainly distributed throughout the American continent, with a significant presence in Mexico.

Care:

- Exposure: Prefers partial shade in regions with warm climates and full sun in milder climates.

- Soil: Requires fresh soil with good drainage and abundant organic matter.

- Watering: During summer, it should be watered abundantly to keep the substrate moist, while the rest of the year watering should be moderated, allowing the substrate to almost dry out between each watering.

- Pruning: Ideally carried out in autumn by lightly trimming the stems.

- Pests and Diseases: Generally, it withstands common garden pests and diseases well.

Curiosities:

- Its fruits are a good source of vitamin C.

- Widely used for garden decoration and balcony ornamentation in pots due to its ornamental appeal.

- Possesses diuretic properties.

Propagation:

It can be easily propagated from seeds sown in late winter or through division of clumps.