Physalis peruviana aka Cape Gooseberry

If you're looking for a plant that offers a moderate level of challenge, Cape Gooseberry is a great choice to test your gardening skills.

Cape Gooseberry should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Cape Gooseberry loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

To ensure optimal growth, the Cape Gooseberry prefers bright indirect light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.

During the cold period, it is common for Cape Gooseberry to go dormant, resulting in a slowdown of growth. To accommodate this, waterings should be spaced out more.

Ploi lacks confirmed information on the toxicity of this plant. If you, a relative, or your pet accidentally consume plant material with unknown toxicity, it's best to consult a medical expert.

The Cape Gooseberry should be repotted when it has doubled in size or annually, whichever comes first. Providing fresh potting soil with all the essential nutrients each year ensures the plant's well-being, eliminating the need for fertilizer. Remember, plants derive their energy from the sun and not fertilizer.

Cape Gooseberry’s native range is S. America - Peru. Naturalized in C. and S. Europe.