Ground Cherry
Physalis grisea
Varieties We Bring In
Last received Aug 4, 2026.
We bring this in seasonally, so what is on the lot changes week to week. A received date shows when it last came in, not that it is here today.
Call (904) 471-0440 to confirm this plant and size before you make the trip.
About Ground Cherry
Ground Cherry (Physalis pruinosa) is a compact, tender perennial in the nightshade family bearing small, sweet fruits enclosed in papery lantern-like husks. Native to the Americas, the sprawling plants produce golden-yellow berries with a flavor reminiscent of vanilla and pineapple. Often grown as an edible annual, it is prized in home gardens and specialty food production. Starting at $14.95.
Plant details
- Bloom Season
- Summer
- Flower Color
- Yellow
- Growth Rate
- Fast
- Foliage
- Annual
- Soil
- Loam, Sandy, Well-drained
Best planting months
Seasonal care
New foliage emerges. Good planting window.
Bloom season.
Foliage may begin to change or drop. Ideal planting window.
Dormant — drops foliage.
Care essentials
Grow Ground Cherry in full sun — a minimum of 6–8 hours of direct sun — for best fruiting. In NE Florida, full sun exposure during the warm season produces the highest yields.
Water consistently to maintain moderate soil moisture; deep, infrequent watering is preferred over frequent shallow irrigation. In NE Florida's rainy summers, ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot; reduce irrigation during wet periods.
Plant in well-drained loamy or sandy loam soil amended with compost. In NE Florida, start transplants indoors in late January and set out after last frost risk (typically February–March). Apply a balanced vegetable fertilizer at planting and side-dress lightly at mid-season; avoid excess nitrogen which delays fruiting.
Similar needs
African Iris
Shares 5 of the same needs: full sun, moderate water, loam, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
Agapanthus
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Aster
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Atamasco Lily
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Blazing Star
Shares 5 of the same needs: full sun, moderate water, sandy, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
Blue Mistflower
Shares 5 of the same needs: full sun, moderate water, loam, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
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Common questions
Is Ground Cherry a good plant for St. Augustine?
Ground Cherry is a perennial for Zone 9b coastal Florida gardens, reaching 1.5-2.5 feet × 2-3 feet.
Care information verified from
Last reviewed March 2026. Our care guidance comes from trusted horticulture sources and decades of helping St. Augustine gardeners. Conditions here can vary dramatically from one area to the next, so come ask us and we'll tailor it to your yard.