Also known as Angular Winter-Cherry · Annual Groundcherry · Balloon-Cherry
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Cutleaf groundcherry (Physalis angulata) is a sprawling annual with edible, papery-housed fruits. Its jagged leaves and small yellow flowers add a unique touch to gardens
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full sun to partial shade
75% intensity
Prefers at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for best growth and fruit production. Can tolerate some shade.
Consistent moisture
50% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Allow top layer to dry slightly between waterings.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Warm
75% intensity
Thrives in temperatures between 20-30°C. Sensitive to frost, protect from cold temperatures.
Outdoor
50% intensity
Light feeding
25% intensity
Feed sparingly with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength during the growing season.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 3/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 3/5 intensity |
| Edible | Yes |
Fruits are edible when ripe. Unripe fruits and other parts of the plant contain toxic compounds.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water regularly to keep the soil consistently moist, especially during dry periods. Allow the top few centimeters of soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot.
Ensure good drainage to prevent waterlogged conditions.
Pruning is generally not required for <i>Physalis angulata</i>, which is often grown as an annual or short-lived perennial.
If it becomes leggy or overgrown, light pruning can be done to shape the plant and encourage bushier growth. Remove any dead or damaged stems.
<i>Physalis angulata</i> is easily propagated from seeds. Sow seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost, or directly outdoors after the danger of frost has passed. Seeds germinate best in warm soil.
Cuttings can also be taken from softwood in spring.
Repotting is typically only necessary for container-grown plants. If the plant becomes root-bound, move it to a slightly larger pot. Use a well-draining potting mix.
Repotting is best done in spring before new growth begins or after fruiting has finished.
Identify plants like this with ePlant
Snap a photo to get care tips and match similar species on the go.
Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Cutleaf Groundcherry (Physalis angulata)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| kingdom | Plantae |
| division | Tracheophyta |
| class | Magnoliopsida |
| order | Solanales |
| family | Solanaceae |
| genus | Physalis |
| species | Physalis angulata |
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
