Profile
Physalis pruinosaPhysalis pruinosa
The Ananaskirsche (Physalis pruinosa), also known as the strawberry groundcherry, is a fascinating fruiting vegetable plant that delights with its sweet-sour fruits reminiscent of tropical flavors. It is relatively easy to grow and also suitable for balconies.

Quick profile
Key data
Planting
May - June
Harvest
July - October
Water
medium
Good neighbors
BasilMarigoldNasturtiumLettuce
Avoid
PotatoTomatoPepperEggplant
Growing data
Physalis pruinosa Growing data
Seed depth
0.5 - 1 cm
Plant spacing
50 - 70 cm
Row spacing
60 - 80 cm
Germination temp
20 - 25 °C
Sowing and germination
Planting and spacing
Temperature and site
Water, nutrients and care
Container, support and growth
Year plan
Physalis pruinosa Calendar
Indoor sowing
Start indoors from March in a bright, warm location.
Direct sowing
Direct sowing is not recommended due to slow and uneven germination.
Planting
Plant outdoors or in a greenhouse after the last frost, from mid-May onwards. Ensure adequate spacing.
Harvest
Fruits are ripe when they turn yellow and fall from their papery husk. Harvest before the first frost.
Year plan
- Sowing
- Pricking out
- Planting out
- Fertilizing
- Pest control
- Watering
- Support
- Disease and pest control
- Harvesting
- Final harvest
Growing
Physalis pruinosa Site, soil and care
Spacing
50 - 70 cm
Storage
Fresh: A few days in the refrigerator, Preserved/Frozen: Longer storage
Physalis pruinosa is an annual plant that requires warm temperatures and plenty of sun. Starting seeds indoors is recommended due to its long growing season. Ensure adequate plant spacing and avoid waterlogging. Fruits are ripe when they turn yellow and fall from their papery husk.
Pruning
Physalis pruinosa Pruning
not_applicable
Goal
not_applicable
Tools and hygiene
Use clean tools to prevent the spread of diseases.
Companion guide
Physalis pruinosa Companion guide
Good neighbors
BasilMarigoldNasturtiumLettuce
Avoid
PotatoTomatoPepperEggplant
Health
Pests, Diseases
Plant health
FAQ
When and how do I plant Physalis pruinosa?
Physalis pruinosa is started indoors from March and planted outdoors or in a greenhouse after the last frost (from mid-May). Ensure a sunny, warm location and adequate spacing.
Is Physalis pruinosa poisonous?
Only fully ripe fruits are edible. Unripe fruits and other plant parts contain alkaloids and are toxic. Look for the yellow color of the fruits.
How do I care for Physalis pruinosa in pots?
Use a sufficiently large pot (min. 10-20 liters) with good drainage. Keep the soil consistently moist but avoid waterlogging. Fertilize regularly during the growing season. Place the pot in a sunny and warm spot.
When are Physalis pruinosa ripe and how do I harvest them?
Fruits are ripe when they turn yellow and fall from their papery husk. Harvest time is from July to October. Harvest all ripe fruits before the first frost.
Related plants
Tomato
Both belong to the nightshade family (Solanaceae).
Both are fruiting vegetables.
Potato
Both belong to the nightshade family (Solanaceae).
Pepper
Both belong to the nightshade family (Solanaceae).
Eggplant
Both are fruiting vegetables.
Powdery mildew
Can also occur in other nightshades.
Gray mold (Botrytis)
Can also occur in other nightshades.
Internal links
Related plants
Sources
Public sources
- Wikidata entity
Wikidata · 2026-05-11
- GBIF species match
GBIF · 2026-05-11
- Deutschsprachige Wikipedia: Physalis pruinosa
Wikipedia · 2026-05-11
- English Wikipedia: Physalis pruinosa
Wikipedia · 2026-05-11
- Trefle API species data
Trefle · 2026-05-11
Details
More public plant data
Names
Common
Physalis pruinosa
Plural
Physalis pruinosa
Synonyms
- Strawberry groundcherry
Common synonyms
- Strawberry groundcherry
Regional names
Historical names
Market names
Misspellings
Search terms
- Physalis pruinosa
- Strawberry groundcherry
- Ground cherry
- Husk tomato
Taxonomy
Clades
- Tracheophytes
- Angiosperms
- Eudicots
- Asterids
Family
Nightshade family
Classification
Edible parts
- Fruit
Calendar
Sowing indoor
Months
- 3
- 4
Notes
Start indoors from March in a bright, warm location.
Sowing outdoor
Notes
Direct sowing is not recommended due to slow and uneven germination.
Planting out
Months
- 5
- 6
Notes
Plant outdoors or in a greenhouse after the last frost, from mid-May onwards. Ensure adequate spacing.
Harvest
Months
- 7
- 8
- 9
- 10
Notes
Fruits are ripe when they turn yellow and fall from their papery husk. Harvest before the first frost.
Month tasks
3
Sow Physalis seeds indoors.
4
Prick out Physalis seedlings if necessary.
5
Plant Physalis outdoors or in a greenhouse once frost danger has passed.
6
Fertilize Physalis as needed and check for pests.
7
Water Physalis regularly and provide support if needed.
8
Continue care for Physalis, watch for diseases and pests.
9
Begin harvesting ripe Physalis.
10
Final harvest of Physalis before the first frost.
Month tasks structured
3
- TaskSowing
Label
Sowing
PriorityhighMonths
- 3
ConditionindoorsEstimated effortlowNotes
Sow indoors in a bright, warm location.
4
- TaskPricking out
Label
Pricking out
PrioritymediumMonths
- 4
Conditionseedlings are large enoughEstimated effortlowNotes
Prick out seedlings into individual pots when they are large enough.
5
- TaskPlanting out
Label
Planting out
PriorityhighMonths
- 5
Conditionafter last frostEstimated effortmediumNotes
Plant out into the garden or greenhouse after the last frosts. Ensure adequate spacing.
6
- TaskFertilizing
Label
Fertilizing
PrioritymediumMonths
- 6
Conditiongrowth phaseEstimated effortlowNotes
Fertilize with a balanced liquid fertilizer if needed.
- TaskPest control
Label
Pest control
PrioritymediumMonths
- 6
Conditionregular inspectionEstimated effortlowNotes
Regularly inspect for pests such as aphids.
7
- TaskWatering
Label
Watering
PriorityhighMonths
- 7
Conditiondry weatherEstimated effortmediumNotes
Ensure consistent watering, especially during dry spells.
- TaskSupport
Label
Support
PrioritymediumMonths
- 7
Conditionplants are growing tallEstimated effortlowNotes
Provide stakes or cages if plants become top-heavy.
8
- TaskDisease and pest control
Label
Disease and pest control
PrioritymediumMonths
- 8
Conditionregular inspectionEstimated effortlowNotes
Monitor for signs of diseases or pest infestation and take appropriate action.
9
- TaskHarvesting
Label
Harvesting
PriorityhighMonths
- 9
Conditionfruits are ripeEstimated effortmediumNotes
Harvest ripe fruits as they turn yellow and detach easily from the plant.
10
- TaskFinal harvest
Label
Final harvest
PriorityhighMonths
- 10
Conditionbefore first frostEstimated effortmediumNotes
Harvest all remaining ripe fruits before the first frost.
Book content
Overview
The Ananaskirsche (Physalis pruinosa), also known as the strawberry groundcherry, is a fascinating fruiting vegetable plant that delights with its sweet-sour fruits reminiscent of tropical flavors. It is relatively easy to grow and also suitable for balconies.
Structured month tasks
3
- TaskSowing
Label
Sowing
PriorityhighMonths
- 3
ConditionindoorsEstimated effortlowNotes
Sow indoors in a bright, warm location.
4
- TaskPricking out
Label
Pricking out
PrioritymediumMonths
- 4
Conditionseedlings are large enoughEstimated effortlowNotes
Prick out seedlings into individual pots when they are large enough.
5
- TaskPlanting out
Label
Planting out
PriorityhighMonths
- 5
Conditionafter last frostEstimated effortmediumNotes
Plant out into the garden or greenhouse after the last frosts. Ensure adequate spacing.
6
- TaskFertilizing
Label
Fertilizing
PrioritymediumMonths
- 6
Conditiongrowth phaseEstimated effortlowNotes
Fertilize with a balanced liquid fertilizer if needed.
- TaskPest control
Label
Pest control
PrioritymediumMonths
- 6
Conditionregular inspectionEstimated effortlowNotes
Regularly inspect for pests such as aphids.
7
- TaskWatering
Label
Watering
PriorityhighMonths
- 7
Conditiondry weatherEstimated effortmediumNotes
Ensure consistent watering, especially during dry spells.
- TaskSupport
Label
Support
PrioritymediumMonths
- 7
Conditionplants are growing tallEstimated effortlowNotes
Provide stakes or cages if plants become top-heavy.
8
- TaskDisease and pest control
Label
Disease and pest control
PrioritymediumMonths
- 8
Conditionregular inspectionEstimated effortlowNotes
Monitor for signs of diseases or pest infestation and take appropriate action.
9
- TaskHarvesting
Label
Harvesting
PriorityhighMonths
- 9
Conditionfruits are ripeEstimated effortmediumNotes
Harvest ripe fruits as they turn yellow and detach easily from the plant.
10
- TaskFinal harvest
Label
Final harvest
PriorityhighMonths
- 10
Conditionbefore first frostEstimated effortmediumNotes
Harvest all remaining ripe fruits before the first frost.
Cultivation specs
Seed
Spacing
Spacing notes
Allow ample space for bushy growth.
Growth dimensions
Final size notes
Bushy, spreading growth habit.
Temperature
Temperature notes
Requires warm temperatures for good growth and fruit ripening.
Water
Critical water phases
- Flowering
- Fruit development
Water notes
Consistent moisture is important; avoid waterlogging.
Nutrition
Nutrition notes
Moderate nutrient requirements; benefits from compost and balanced fertilization during the growing season.
Container
Container notes
Requires sufficiently large pots with good drainage.
Support
Support types
- stake
- cage
Support notes
Support can help keep plants upright, especially in windy conditions or with heavy fruit load.
Cultivation modes
Yield density
Yield notes
Yield can vary depending on location, care, and variety.
Site
Location
Sunny to partial shade
Wind protection
Beneficial, especially in strong winds
Notes
Prefers a warm, sheltered location. Full sun promotes fruit ripening, but protection from extreme midday heat is advisable.
Soil
Type
Humus-rich, loose, well-draining, fertile
PH range
Notes
Sensitive to waterlogging. Soil improvement with compost is recommended.
Watering
Frequency
Regularly, especially during dry periods
Method
Keep consistently moist, avoid waterlogging. Water preferably at the root base.
Notes
Water scarcity can lead to fruit drop. Excessive moisture favors fungal diseases.
Nutrition
Fertilization
Fertilize every 2-4 weeks during the growth and fruiting phases with a balanced liquid fertilizer or organic fertilizer. Incorporate compost.
Notes
Avoid over-fertilizing, especially with nitrogen, as this can lead to excessive leaf growth at the expense of fruit production.
Cultivation planning
Succession sowing
Bed planning notes
Suitable for companion planting. Avoid planting directly next to potatoes or tomatoes to prevent disease transmission.
Crop rotation
Notes
Physalis pruinosa belongs to the nightshade family (Solanaceae). It should not be grown after or before other nightshades such as tomatoes, potatoes, peppers, or eggplants to avoid the buildup of soil-borne diseases and pests. A break of 3-4 years is recommended.
Rotation groups
- solanaceae
Deficiencies
Notes
Deficiency symptoms usually occur with unfavorable soil conditions or incorrect fertilization.
Deficiency list
- Slugcalcium_deficiency
Name
Calcium deficiency
Symptoms
Stunted growth, young leaves yellow and die off (similar to blight, but often starting at the tips). Fruit development may be impaired.
Affected parts
- Young leaves
- Growing tips
- Fruits
Correction
- Liming if necessary (check pH)
- Application of calcium nitrate or other calcium fertilizers
- Soil improvement with compost
Prevention
- Balanced fertilization
- Maintain optimal pH (6.0-7.0)
- Consistent watering
- Slugmagnesium_deficiency
Name
Magnesium deficiency
Symptoms
Yellowing (chlorosis) between the leaf veins, while the veins remain green. Usually affects older leaves.
Affected parts
- Older leaves
Correction
- Application of Epsom salt (magnesium sulfate) as a foliar spray (1 tbsp per 10 liters of water)
- Use magnesium-containing fertilizers
Prevention
- Balanced fertilization
- Soil improvement with organic matter
Problems
Notes
Physalis pruinosa is generally robust, but unfavorable growing conditions can lead to problems.
Problem list
- Slugpoor_fruit_set
Name
Poor fruit set
Causes
- Insufficient pollination (lack of wind, absence of pollinators)
- Extreme temperatures (too hot or too cold)
- Drought or waterlogging
- Nutrient imbalance (too much nitrogen)
- Diseases or pest infestation
Solutions
- Encourage pollinators (plant flowers nearby)
- Protect plants from extreme heat (provide shade)
- Ensure consistent watering
- Balanced fertilization, reduce nitrogen
- Control diseases and pests
- Slugleaf_drop
Name
Leaf drop
Causes
- Drought
- Waterlogging
- Nutrient deficiency (especially nitrogen or magnesium)
- Temperature fluctuations
- Diseases
Solutions
- Adjust watering
- Improve soil and ensure drainage
- Balanced fertilization
- Protect plants (e.g., from cold or heat)
- Treat diseases
Problem management
Common pest groups
- Aphids
- Spider mites
- Slugs
Common disease groups
- Powdery mildew
- Gray mold (Botrytis)
Prevention principles
- Site selection: Sunny, warm, sheltered from wind.
- Soil: Loose, humus-rich, well-draining.
- Plant spacing: Adequate (at least 50x60 cm) to ensure air circulation.
- Watering: Consistent, avoid waterlogging.
- Fertilization: Balanced, not excessively nitrogen-rich.
- Crop rotation: At least 3-4 years break from nightshades.
- Companion planting: Encourage good neighbors, avoid bad ones.
- Strengthen plants: Healthy plants are more resistant.
- Regular inspection: Detect infestation early.
Diagnosis notes
Observe symptoms carefully. Differentiate between pests, diseases, and nutrient deficiencies. Consider growing conditions.
Disease graph
Profiles
- Slugpowdery_mildew_physalis_pruinosaSeveritymedium
Conditions
- High humidity
- Poor air circulation
- Drought stress
Affected parts
- Leaves
- Stems
- Fruits
Prevention
- Adequate plant spacing
- Good ventilation
- Morning watering
- Strengthen plants
Organic control
- Milk-water mixture (1:10)
- Baking soda solution
- Potassium bicarbonate sprays
- Sluggray_mold_physalis_pruinosaSeveritymedium
Conditions
- High humidity
- Poor ventilation
- Damaged plant parts
- Cool temperatures
Affected parts
- Leaves
- Flowers
- Fruits
- Stems
Prevention
- Good ventilation
- Avoid injuries
- Do not plant too densely
- Avoid waterlogging
Organic control
- Remove infected parts
- Plant extracts (garlic, horsetail)
- Biological fungicides
Diagnostic rules
Symptom
White, powdery coating on leaves and stems.
Possible causes
- powdery_mildew_physalis_pruinosa
First checks
- Is air circulation good?
- Are the plants planted too densely?
- Are the leaves moist, even in the evening?
Symptom
Gray, fuzzy coating on fruits and leaves, often with rot.
Possible causes
- gray_mold_physalis_pruinosa
First checks
- Are fruits or leaves injured?
- Is humidity very high?
- Is there waterlogging?
Prevention strategy
Cultural
- Choose a sunny, warm, and well-ventilated location.
- Ensure well-draining, humus-rich soil.
- Maintain adequate plant spacing (at least 50x60 cm).
- Avoid waterlogging through appropriate watering and good drainage.
- Incorporate compost for soil improvement.
- Ensure balanced nutrition, avoid excessive nitrogen fertilization.
- Practice good crop rotation and avoid planting nightshades in the preceding year.
- Encourage good neighbors and avoid bad ones.
Monitoring
- Regularly inspect leaves (tops and undersides) and fruits for signs of pests or diseases.
- Pay special attention to changes during high humidity or drought stress.
- Check plants after rain or watering for signs of fungal infection.
Organic first response
- For initial signs of aphids: Rinse off with water or soap solution.
- For powdery mildew: Sprays with milk-water mixture or baking soda solution.
- For gray mold: Remove and dispose of infected parts immediately.
- For spider mites: Increase humidity and rinse off.
Notes
Prevention is key to avoiding diseases and pest infestations. Healthy, well-cared-for plants are more resistant.
Diagnosis
Notes
Accurate diagnosis requires observation of symptoms, growing conditions, and the site's disease history.
Diagnostic steps
- Step1
Description
Identify symptoms: Which parts of the plant are affected (leaves, stems, fruits)? What do the symptoms look like (spots, coatings, deformities, feeding damage)?
- Step2
Description
Check environmental conditions: Is the plant over- or under-supplied (water, nutrients)? Are there extreme temperatures? Is air circulation good?
- Step3
Description
Look for pests or pathogens: Are visible pests present? Are there signs of fungal infection (e.g., spores, mycelium)?
- Step4
Description
Consider disease history: Were similar problems observed in this bed in previous years? Were there issues with neighboring plants?
- Step5
Description
Narrow down possible causes and take targeted action.
Common misdiagnoses
Misdiagnosis
Confusing nutrient deficiencies with diseases.
Explanation
Symptoms like leaf yellowing can indicate both nutrient deficiency (e.g., magnesium) and diseases (e.g., viral infections). Soil analysis or targeted fertilization can help.
Misdiagnosis
Confusing physiological disorders (e.g., heat stress) with pest infestation.
Explanation
Wilting or discolored leaves during heat are often due to stress, not pests. Look for the presence of pests.
Phenology
Stages
- Germination: 7-14 days
- Growth: Spring to Autumn
- Flowering: Summer
- Fruiting: Late Summer to Autumn
Notes
Physalis pruinosa is an annual plant that grows and fruits quickly under warm conditions. Ripening time can vary depending on the climate.
Harvest
- Fruits are ripe when they turn yellow and fall from their papery husk.
- Harvest time: July to October
- Harvest all ripe fruits before the first frost.
Harvest details
Harvest frequency
Fruits ripen gradually over an extended period. Regular harvesting encourages further flowering.
Harvest indicators
- Yellowing of the fruit
- Fruit detaches easily from the husk
- Fruit falls from the plant on its own
Post harvest handling
Harvested fruits can be carefully removed from their husks and washed. They are delicate and should not be piled up.
Storage
- Fresh: A few days in the refrigerator
- Preserved/Frozen: Longer storage
Storage details
General storage category
Fresh, chilled, processed
Storage life
Fresh: 3-7 days in the refrigerator. Preserved or frozen: several months.
Processing options
- Jam
- Jelly
- Compote
- Drying
- Freezing
Kitchen usage
Ripe fruits are consumed fresh, used in fruit salads, desserts, cakes, or made into jams and jellies. They are also suitable for freezing or drying.
Safety and edibility
Edible parts
- Fruit (ripe)
Inedible or caution parts
- Unripe fruits
- Leaves
- Stems
- Roots
Toxicity notes
Unripe fruits and other plant parts contain alkaloids (like solanine) and are toxic. Only fully ripe fruits are edible.
Raw consumption
Ripe fruits can be consumed raw.
Seed saving
- Collect seeds from fully ripe fruits.
- Crush fruits, soak seeds with pulp in water (fermentation).
- After a few days, rinse the fermented seeds and dry them.
- Store dry seeds in a cool, dry place.
Seed saving advanced
Notes
As Physalis pruinosa is self-pollinating, isolation from other Physalis species is not strictly necessary, but recommended for maintaining varietal purity with cultivars. The fermentation method helps remove pulp and improve germination.
Woody crop details
Notes
Physalis pruinosa is an annual herbaceous plant, not a woody perennial. Therefore, details regarding woody varieties, rootstocks, pruning, and training systems are not applicable to this plant.
Ecology
Biodiversity notes
While the fruits can be a food source for birds and some mammals, the ecological value of Physalis pruinosa is limited as it is primarily cultivated. However, supporting pollinators is beneficial.
Practical notes
Physalis pruinosa is an annual plant that requires warm temperatures and plenty of sun. Starting seeds indoors is recommended due to its long growing season. Ensure adequate plant spacing and avoid waterlogging. Fruits are ripe when they turn yellow and fall from their papery husk.
Seasonal content
Spring
In spring, Physalis pruinosa begins with indoor sowing. From mid-May, after the last frosts, the young plants are moved outdoors or into the greenhouse.
Summer
During summer, the plant grows vigorously, flowers, and the first fruits begin to develop. Regular watering and fertilization as needed are important.
Autumn
Late summer and autumn are the main harvest periods. Fruits ripen gradually. All ripe fruits should be harvested before the first frost.
Winter
As an annual plant, Physalis pruinosa dies back in winter. The soil can be prepared for the next season.



