Cape Gooseberry (Physalis Peruviana) - Start Cape Gooseberry seed to grow this perennial plant that produces golden colored berries. Physalis Peruviana, commonly referred to as Cape Gooseberry, grows to approximately 2 feet tall and is is hardy to zone 8 but is frost tender. Cape Gooseberry plants are in flower from July to October, and the seeds ripen from August to November. The flowers are hermaphrodite (have both male and female organs) and are pollinated by bees and wind.

Cape Gooseberry, or also called Goldenberry or Peruvian Ground Cherry, will grow in a wide range of soils from light sandy soils to heavy clay soils. Goldenberry plants prefer soil types that are well-drained. Even if the soil is nutritionally poor, Cape Gooseberry will still grow well, and it prefers acidic soil. Physalis Peruviana is very adaptable and can grow in full sun to partial shade.

Start Cape Gooseberry seeds indoors 6 - 8 weeks before the end of frost season. Cover the seeds with 1/16 inch of soil and keep the Physalis seeds moist. Transplant when temperatures are warm (after tomatoes are set out). The berries will ripen from green to golden yellow when ripe, and they will drop in their husks ready to be collected. Cape Gooseberry is known for its golden yellow, berries. You can use these fruits raw or cooked in pies, cakes, jellies, jams and as a raisin substitute also not as sweet. Goldenberry is considered to have a delicious bitter-sweet flavor.

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How to Grow

Gooseberry seeds should be planted when temperatures reach 75 degrees Fahrenheit. The plant grows in USDA zones 8-11, and is very adaptable within soil: it can grow in sandy or clay earth (as long as it is well-drained), with a pH of 5.1 - 6.0. It enjoys full sun to partial shade. Cut stems for drying as the calyces begin to color. Germination occurs in 10-20 days under proper conditions, and the plant can reach up to a height of 24 inches.

• Environment: full sun to partial shade
• Soil: sandy to clay w' pH 5.1-6.0
• Sowing rate: 3 seeds per plant

Plant Specifications

Cape Gooseberry is a perennial fruit-producing plant that grows in USDA zones 8 through 11. Its small berries are often used in cooking.

• Fruit color: yellow
• Fruit season: late summer to fall
• Plant Height: 24 inches