Question 1

Are Ground Cherries Dangerous for Dogs?

Accepted Answer

Similar to other nightshades, pets and livestock should avoid eating ground cherry leaves and green fruit. These parts of the plant can carry fatal levels of a toxic compound known as solanine.

Question 2

What's the Difference Between a Gooseberry & Ground Cherry?

Accepted Answer

Ground cherries are known as physalis pruinosa. While gooseberries, physalis peruviana, are members of the physalis family, they are not technically the same plant.

Question 3

How Long Do Ground Cherries Take To Grow?

Accepted Answer

Ground cherry plants germinate within 7-14 days of planting and reach maturity between 60-75 days depending on the specific variety of ground cherry.

Question 4

How Much Space Do Ground Cherries Need?

Accepted Answer

Ground cherry plants should be spaced at least 2-3 square feet apart per plant to allow for spreading.

Question 5

Can You Eat Ground Cherries Raw?

Accepted Answer

Yes, ripe ground cherries can be eaten raw; however, you should never consume green, unripe ground cherries because they contain a toxic compound, solanine, in potentially dangerous levels.

Question 6

Can I Grow Ground Cherries in Pots/Containers?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Ground cherries are well suited to container growing. Plant ground cherries in a large container (at least 8 inches deep and 1 gallon in volume) and keep them in a sunny location.

Question 7

Are Ground Cherry Plants Perennials? Do They Come Back Every Year?

Accepted Answer

Ground cherries are susceptible to frost and are only considered perennials in zones 8 and above.

Question 8

Do Ground Cherries Need a Trellis?

Accepted Answer

Ground cherries do not necessarily need a trellis; however, they do benefit from some plant support (such as tomato cages) for cleanliness and easier harvesting of fallen berries.

Question 9

Are Tomatillos The Same As Ground Cherries?

Accepted Answer

No, tomatillos and ground cherries are not the same plant. Tomatillo plants produce large green fruit that are not sweet (tomatillos are typically used in spicy salsas). Ground cherry fruit are golden yellow and have a sweeter taste. Ground cherry plants are typically used to make sweet jams and preserves.

Question 10

How Do You Tell When a Ground Cherry is Ripe?

Accepted Answer

Ground cherries are ripe and ready to harvest when their outer green husk transforms into a papery-thin brown husk. Ripe ground cherries easily fall from the plant when shaken. Fallen cherries can be harvested and left to ripen further at room temperature.