Physalis peruviana

Species of cultivated South American fruit

Physalis peruviana
Ripe orange fruits
Physalis peruviana
Scientific classification
Kingdom
Phylum
Class
Order
Family
Genus	Physalis
Species	peruviana
Binomial name	Physalis peruviana
Binomial authority
Synonyms	Template:Species list

Introduction

Physalis peruviana, also known as Cape gooseberry, goldenberry, and Peruvian groundcherry, is a plant species of the family Solanaceae, native to South America. It is a small shrub that produces edible fruit, which is used in a variety of culinary applications.

Description

Physalis peruviana is a small shrub that grows to a height of 1-2 meters. It has large, heart-shaped leaves that are dark green in color. The plant produces small, lantern-shaped flowers that are white with purple centers. The fruit of the plant is a small, orange-yellow berry that is encased in a papery husk.

Distribution

Physalis peruviana is native to the Andean regions of South America, but it is now cultivated in many parts of the world, including South Africa, Australia, New Zealand, and the United States. It is particularly well-suited to warm, tropical climates.

Cultivation

Physalis peruviana is usually grown from seed, which is sown directly into the soil in early spring. The plant prefers well-drained soil and plenty of sunlight. It is also important to keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged, during the growing season. The fruit is typically harvested when the husk turns brown and the fruit inside turns a bright orange color.

Uses

The fruit of Physalis peruviana is rich in vitamins A, C, and B-complex, as well as minerals such as iron and phosphorus. It is used in a variety of culinary applications, including as a topping for desserts, in jams and jellies, and as a flavoring in drinks.

In addition to its culinary uses, Physalis peruviana has a number of medicinal properties. It has been used to treat a variety of ailments, including stomachaches, fevers, and rheumatism. The fruit is also high in antioxidants, which can help to protect the body against damage from free radicals.

Cultural significance

In many parts of the world, Physalis peruviana is considered a delicacy. In South Africa, it is known as the "Cape gooseberry" and is used to make jams, jellies, and sauces. In Colombia, it is often used to make a dessert known as "queso con dulce," which consists of sweetened cheese and Physalis peruviana jam.

In traditional medicine, the plant is used to treat a variety of ailments. The fruit and leaves have been used to treat digestive disorders, fever, and inflammation. The plant has also been used to treat urinary tract infections, malaria, and cancer.

Gallery

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  Flower of Physalis peruviana
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  Fruit of Physalis peruviana
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  Tarte aux fruits with Physalis peruviana on top

See also

Physalis - the genus of the plant Physalis pruinosa - another species of Physalis Solanaceae - the family of flowering plants that includes Physalis

Physalis peruviana

Annual of tropical South America having edible purple fruits

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External links

Physalis peruviana on Plants for a Future