Cape gooseberry
Cape gooseberry (Physalis peruviana)
Cape gooseberry (IPA: /ˈkeɪp ˈɡʊzbəri/) is a species of the genus Physalis, in the family Solanaceae. It is native to South America but has been cultivated in England since the late 18th century and in South Africa in the region of the Cape of Good Hope since at least the start of the 19th century.
Etymology
The term "Cape gooseberry" comes from the Cape of Good Hope, where the fruit was first cultivated. The "gooseberry" part of the name is a misnomer, as the fruit is not related to the true gooseberries, which belong to the family Grossulariaceae.
Description
The Cape gooseberry is a small, orange fruit enclosed in a papery husk, similar to a Chinese lantern. The fruit is sweet when ripe, with a unique flavour. The plant is a perennial, but is often grown as an annual. It can reach heights of up to 1 metre.
Related terms
- Physalis: The genus to which the Cape gooseberry belongs.
- Solanaceae: The family of flowering plants to which the Cape gooseberry belongs.
- Chinese lantern: A plant in the same family as the Cape gooseberry, known for its bright orange, lantern-shaped fruits.
- Gooseberries: A different type of fruit, not related to the Cape gooseberry.
Uses
Cape gooseberries are eaten fresh, made into jams, or used in baking. They are also used in salads, desserts, and as a flavouring for beverages.
Health benefits
Cape gooseberries are rich in vitamin C, vitamin A, and antioxidants. They are also a good source of dietary fiber.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Cape gooseberry
- Wikipedia's article - Cape gooseberry
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