Sticky Cape Gooseberry
Physalis viscosa

Family: Solanaceae

What it is like

An erect plant. It has a spreading habit. The roots are extensive and creeping. It grows 60-180 cm high. It keeps growing from year to year. The leaves are light green and have leaf stalks. The leaves do not have hairs and have a wavy edge. The flowers are yellow. They grow in the axils of the upper leaves. The flowers are bell shaped and 2.5 cm across. They have dark centres. The fruit is a berry which is orange and sticky. It is covered in a thin outer covering.

There are about 75-100 Physalis species.

Where it is found

It is a warm temperate plant. In Chile it grows from sea level to 2,000 m altitude. It grows in humid areas with constant rain. It grows in full sun. It can tolerate some dry periods and some shade. It can grow in arid places. It suits hardiness zone 9. It can tolerate light frosts.

Countries/locations it is found in

Africa, Argentina, Australia, Bolivia, Brazil (country/location of origin), Chile, East Africa, Easter Island, Eswatini, Mexico, Mozambique, North America, Paraguay, South Africa, Southern Africa, South America, Swaziland, Uruguay, USA, Zimbabwe

How it is used for food

The ripe fruit are eaten. They are also used for jam.

The fruit are enjoyed by children.

Edible parts

Fruit, leaves

How it is grown

It can be grown from seed or from root pieces.

Its other names

Local names

Camambu, Camapu, Cerezo ratrero, Huevo de gallo, Kamambu, Prairie ground cherry, Sticky ground cherry, Tomatito, Uchuva, Uvilla del campo

Synonyms

Physalis curassavica L.; Physalis floridana Rydb.; Physalis fuscomaculata Rouville ex Dunal; Physalis mendocina Phil.; Physalis pennsylvanica L.;