Clammy Ground Cherry, Rowell's groundcherry

Physalis heterophylla

Physical Characteristics

Physalis heterophylla is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.9 m (3ft) by 1 m (3ft 3in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 8. It is in flower from July to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.

Distribution

N. America - New Brunswick to Saskatchewan, Florida, Colorado and Texas.

Habitats

Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Edible Uses: Fruit - raw or cooked[46, 105, 161]. Quite nice raw though rather small[K], the fruit can also be made into pies, jams, sauces etc[183]. Pectin or pectin-rich fruit should be added if the fruit is used in jams and preserves[183]. The fruit can also be dried, ground into a meal and added to flour for making bread etc[183]. The plant conveniently wraps up each fruit in its own 'paper bag' (botanically, the calyx) to protect it from pests and the elements. This calyx is toxic and should not be eaten.

Medicinal Uses

Antitumor Diuretic Poultice Urinary The seed is considered to be beneficial in the treatment of difficult urination, fever, inflammation and various urinary disorders[222]. A tea made from the leaves is used in the treatment of headaches and as a wash for burns and scalds[222]. A poultice of the leaves and roots is applied to wounds[222]. An infusion of the leaves and roots is used as a wash on scalds, burns and VD sores[257]. Compounds in the plant are being investigated for antitumor activity[222].

Known Hazards

All parts of the plant, except the fruit, are poisonous[19, 65].