Heirloom Seeds
Ground Cherry Seeds (Cape Gooseberry) – Non-GMO Heirloom
by Organo Republic · United States
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Cape Gooseberry is a distinctive tomatillo relative that produces small, golden-orange berries wrapped in papery husks with a sweet-tart, tropical flavor. Also called ground cherry, this variety ( Physalis peruviana ) is grown much like a tomatillo but eaten
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more like a fruit. Gardeners after something unusual will find these tomatillo seeds rewarding and easy to grow. Who it's for Ideal for adventurous gardeners and home cooks who love unique flavors for jams, desserts, and fresh snacking straight from the husk. How & when to plant Start seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before your last frost, sowing 1/4 inch deep in warm soil around 70–80°F. Transplant after frost has passed, spacing plants 24–36 inches apart in full sun. These sprawling plants benefit from room to spread and grow as warm-season annuals in USDA zones 4–11. Harvest Berries ripen roughly 70–75 days after transplanting. The fruit is ready when the papery husk turns tan and dry and the berries drop to the ground — simply gather the fallen husks. Ripe fruit inside is golden and sweet. Benefits & uses Cape Gooseberries are wonderful eaten fresh, added to fruit salads, or cooked into jams, pies, and sauces. Their sweet-tart taste also pairs well with cheeses and makes an elegant garnish for desserts. Growing guide: New to this variety? Read our full guide, How to Grow Cape Gooseberry From Seed , for step by step sowing, spacing, and harvest tips.