Polish heirloom from1837 with a sweet citrus flavor
Aunt Molly ground cherry or cape gooseberry variety produces smooth, marble-sized fruits originating from South America, The berries have a sweet, tangy, citrus flavor. The sweet golden fruit are enclosed in papery husks turning green to yellow/brown, dropping to the ground when ripe. Add these to salads, jams, smoothies, preserves, pies. When stored with the husk on they can last a month. Grows to 60 cm high by 120 cm wide.
Scientific Name: Physalis pubescens
Plant Life Cycle: annual
Optimal Germination Temperature: 24C-28C
Germination time in days: 7-10 days
Indicative Days to maturity: 80-85 days
Sunlight: Full sun
Soil requirement: well drained and rich.
Sowing and cultivation: Start seeds indoors six to eight weeks before your last frost. Place your seeds on top of the soil and then cover lightly with a thin layer of soil, about 1/2 cm. Pat soil gently. Water after planting seeds. Keep soil moist. Please note that ground cherries have a low germination rate so it is advised to sow more than you need. They also do not like overwatering. When the plants are established, thin them and give them about 70 cm to spread. If you choose to direct sow, plant seeds after your last frost.
