Tomatillo (Physalis ixocarpa)
At a glance
- Lifecycle
- Annual
- Exposure
- Full sun
Cultivation
Succeeds in any well-drained soil in full sun or light shade. One report suggests that the plant is a perennial but, if this is true, it is not winter hardy in Britain though it can be cultivated as an annual for its edible fruit in much the same way that tomatoes are grown. Some botanists unite this species with P. philadelphica, saying that it arose from P. philadelphica through cultivation. A slow growing plant.
Propagation
Seed - sow March/April in a greenhouse only just covering the seed. Germination usually takes place quickly and freely. Prick out the seedlings into individual pots of fairly rich soil when they are large enough to handle and plant them out after the last expected frosts. Consider giving them some protection such as a cloche until they are growing away well. Diurnal temperature fluctuations assist germination.
Edible uses
Fruit - raw or cooked. The plant conveniently wraps up each fruit in its own 'paper bag' (botanically, the calyx) to protect it from pests and the elements. This calyx is toxic and should not be eaten. The fruit can be stored for up to a year if picked before they are fully ripe and left inside their calyx.
Habitat
Waste places.
Native range
Southern and Central N. America as far north as southern Quebec.
Scientific synonyms Physalis philadelphica