The physalis (also known as bladder cherries) are a genus within the nightshade family. In this country, the lantern flower and the Andean berry are well known, but there are also a number of other, less well-known relatives. The exact number of Physalis species is not known. Information varies between 75 and 100 different varieties, most of which are native to Central and South America.

Ornamental lantern flower

The well-known lantern flower, the only one of the Physalis species to also occur in Europe, is mainly cultivated as an ornamental shrub because of its pretty flowers, which turn brightly colored in autumn. The small fruits are considered poisonous, although the spirits argue here too. But whether poisonous or not: the berries of Physalis alkekengi, as the plant is called in Latin, do not taste particularly good. So there is no risk of accidentally consuming larger amounts. Also in contrast to the other Physalis species, the rhizomes (= roots) of the lantern flower are hardy.

Tasty Andean berry (Physalis peruviana)

In contrast to the berries of the lantern flower, the somewhat larger fruits of the Andean berry, which are very bright orange-red when ripe, taste refreshingly sweet and sour, juicy and aromatic. The plant, also known as the Cape gooseberry, originally comes from the Andes and is cultivated in subtropical regions worldwide. But the Andean berry also thrives in Germany, it simply does not tolerate frost. A plant can produce up to 300 berries.

Rarer Species

In addition to the two Physalis species mentioned, there are numerous others, some of which are only processed locally in their home countries as fruit or vegetables or eaten raw. The following three varieties mentioned as examples should bring a rich harvest even in our climatic conditions.

  • Tomatillo (Mexican ground cherry, Physalis ixocarpa)
  • Pineapple cherry (Physalis pruinosa)
  • Strawberry Tomato (Physalis philadelphica)

No salsa without tomatillo

The Mexican tomatillo in particular is of great culinary importance. In Mexico, the pulp is used to make sauces and pastes flavored with chili, which are used as an accompaniment to meat dishes and tortillas and as a spread. The fruit juice is consumed as a drink. The tasty, vitamin C-rich berries are usually cooked or steamed green. Ripe fruits are used to make jam and can be eaten raw out of hand or eaten as part of salads.

tips and tricks

No matter what type of Physalis it is: the proliferating plants can be wonderfully socialized with bluebells, asters and chrysanthemums.

IJA

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