Physalis
Sign in to savePhysalis (, , , , from 'bladder') is a genus of approximately 75 to 90 flowering plants in the nightshade family (Solanaceae), which are native to the Americas and Australasia. At least 46 species are endemic to Mexico. Cultivated and weedy species have been introduced worldwide. A defining feature of Physalis is a large, papery husk derived from the calyx, which partly or fully encloses the fruit. Many species bear edible fruit, and some species are cultivated.
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Physalis is a genus of flowering plants in the nightshade family, native to the Americas and Australasia, that is known for its distinctive papery husk surrounding the fruit. Many species produce edible fruit, and some are cultivated as crops or have spread to other parts of the world.
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Article
19 sectionsContents
- Description
- Fossil record
- Cultivation and uses
- Subgenera and sections
- Genetics and breeding
- ''Physalis'' subgenus ''Physalodendron''
- ''Physalis'' subgenus ''Rydbergis''
- Section Angulatae
- Section Campanulae
- Section Coztomatae
- Section Epeteiorhiza
- Section Lanceolatae
- Section Rydbergae
- Section Tehuacanae
- Section Viscosae
- Physalis species not assigned to a subgenus or section
- Formerly placed here
- References
- External links
Physalis (, , , , from 'bladder') is a genus of approximately 75 to 90 flowering plants in the nightshade family (Solanaceae), which are native to the Americas and Australasia. At least 46 species are endemic to Mexico. Cultivated and weedy species have been introduced worldwide. A defining feature of Physalis is a large, papery husk derived from the calyx, which partly or fully encloses the fruit. Many species bear edible fruit, and some species are cultivated.
The typical Physalis fruit is similar to a firm tomato in texture, and like a sweet, tangy grape in flavor. Some species, such as the Cape gooseberry and tomatillo, have been bred into many cultivars with varying flavors, from tart to sweet to savory. Nations including Colombia, India, and Mexico have a significant economic trade in Physalis fruit. The fruits of many species are generically referred to as physalis, groundcherries, husk tomatoes, husk cherries, poha berries, and golden berries.