annualN. America Native

Cutleaf Groundcherry

The Story

Plant Bio

Physalis angulata is a branching annual herb distinguished by its angled, semi-succulent stems and dark green, toothed leaves. Pale yellow flowers give way to large, balloon-like husks that swell to enclose a single round, orange-yellow berry.

This species is highly adaptable, thriving in disturbed soils and warm, humid conditions across its native southern range. While the fully ripe berries are edible, all green parts of the plant—including the unripe fruit and papery calyx—contain toxic alkaloids.

Uses & Benefits:

The inflated, balloon-like green husks provide unique visual interest in naturalized garden borders.

Produces edible yellow-orange berries that can be harvested once completely mature and fallen from the plant.

Flowers attract generalist native bees and small pollinators, while the mature fruits feed seed-eating birds.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Annual

Height

40"

Width

24"

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10

Water

Moderate

Humidity

High

Lifespan

Annual

Native To

Americas

Toxicity

Toxic if ingested (unripe parts)

Bloom period

Summer – Fall

In flower about 6 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Sow seeds directly into well-drained soil in spring after all danger of frost has passed.
Select a site in full sun to partial shade with sandy or loamy soil.
Water regularly until the seedlings are established, then reduce watering to match natural rainfall.
Harvest the berries only when the papery husks turn dry and straw-colored, indicating the fruit inside is fully ripe.

Pro Tip

Avoid nitrogen-rich fertilizers, which stimulate dense foliage growth at the expense of flower and fruit production.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Monitor the planting area to remove volunteer seedlings before they spread aggressively.
Ensure the soil drains rapidly to prevent root rot.

Don't

Do not ingest any green or unripe berries, as they contain toxic solanine.
Do not overwater or plant in low-lying areas prone to standing water.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Harvest
Pest Check
Plant
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Wildflower GardensHeirloom Vegetable GardensNaturalized Areas

Companion Plants

Solanum lycopersicum Capsicum annuum Tagetes patula

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Cutleaf Groundcherry questions

What zones can Cutleaf Groundcherry grow in?

Cutleaf Groundcherry is hardy in USDA Zones 4–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Cutleaf Groundcherry deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Cutleaf Groundcherry, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Cutleaf Groundcherry bloom?

Cutleaf Groundcherry typically blooms in summer through fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Cutleaf Groundcherry need full sun?

Cutleaf Groundcherry does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Cutleaf Groundcherry drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Cutleaf Groundcherry handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.