Solanaceae
Physalis minima
Pygmy groundcherry
H
Not currently in the nursery
We can propagate most native species on request — get in touch to discuss timeline and quantity.
About
Pygmy groundcherry is an annual herb that typically grows 0.2 to 0.5 metres tall. It features soft, smooth leaves, 2.5 to 12 centimetres long, with edges that can be smooth or slightly jagged. The plant produces small, cream-coloured to yellowish flowers, which develop into small, round, yellowish berries enclosed within an inflated, papery calyx. When fully ripe, the fruit has a pleasant cherry-tomato-like flavour and is edible.
Where it works in Kilifi
This herb thrives in full sun to light shade and adapts well to any well-drained soil, including sandy or loamy types. It is excellent for groundcover, container growing, or as an edible annual in garden beds, and can contribute to restoration in disturbed sites.
Growing notes
A fast-growing annual, it prefers consistently moist, but not waterlogged, soil once established. It is highly resistant to pests and diseases. Caution: While ripe fruits are edible, all other parts of the plant, including unripe fruits, leaves, and stems, are considered toxic.
Sources
Researched with web grounding from: tradewindsfruit.com, kiddle.co, ijpsjournal.com, commonsenseseeds.ca, expatchoice.asia, pfaf.org. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.