Cape Gooseberry
Physalis peruviana
- A papery husk hides the gorgeously sweet fruits of this lovely shrubby plant.
- Perennial.
- Requires Winter frost protection.
Supplied as compost block grown plants.
Available from APPROXIMATELY mid May1 or more £2.25GBP each. Group & quantity discounts
Description
Originating from Peru, Physalis peruviana became commonly known as the Cape Gooseberry due to its rise in popularity and cultivation in South Africa in the 1800's. It is now known under a variety of names - Physalis, Golden Berry, Giant Ground Cherry, Peruvian Ground Cherry, Peruvian Cherry, Poha, Jam Fruit, Uvula, Chua - the list is almost endless, but in our opinion none do true justice to the lovely cheerful fruit.
Following pretty yellow flowers with a chocolate blotch centre, the bright orange yellow fruits are produced - not that you would know as each is formed within a delicate papery pod. Whilst the papery pods make the fruit extremely decorative (and so a popular exotic garnish for restaurant desserts) the husk actually serves a more important purpose in that picked fruit left within the husk will have a 'shelf life' of a month or more at room temperature.
With a gorgeously sweet flavour these are perfect for eating raw and are great in fruit salads; in some parts of the world they are often served with Avocado. They are also wonderful for making pies or jam with.
As these are not hardy in the UK, many treat them as an annual which is such shame. We would suggest lifting before first frosts, potting into a large container and over-wintering in a frost free greenhouse or similar; of course due to their tenderness they are a perfect subject for container growing.
- Perennial (although often treated as annuals).
- Like a full sun position.
- Prefer well drained soil.
- Require Winter frost protection.
- Plant outside from May until late August.
- Plant 2'6" apart by 15" apart (75 x 36 cm).
- Can be grown in pots.
- Reaches 5ft (180cm) high.
Pricing
Available from APPROXIMATELY mid May
General Information
What's A Compost Block Grown Plant?
Information on the size of the compost blocks that Victoriana grow their plants in - and what you can expect to receive.
