Plant 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.

Fruit vegetablesNightshade family
Calendar
Physalis pruinosa (Physalis pruinosa): plant portrait - Fruit vegetables, Nightshade family, Harvest July - October
Physalis pruinosa: plant portrait. harvest: July - October.

Quick profile

Key data

Growing calendar
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Indoor sowing
Planting outdoors
Harvest
Indoor sowingPlanting outdoorsHarvest

Suitable growing locations:

Outdoor garden bedRaised bedContainerBalconyGreenhouse

Good neighbors

BasilMarigoldNasturtiumLettuce

Avoid

PotatotomatoPepperEggplant

Indoor & direct sowing

Physalis pruinosa: Sowing and germination

Indoor sowing

Start indoors from March in a bright, warm location.

Direct sowing outdoors

Direct sowing is not recommended due to slow and uneven germination.

Seed depth0.5 - 1 cm
Germination temp20 - 25 °C
Germination time7 - 14 days
Light germinatorNo
Dark germinatorNo
Cold germinatorNo
Stratification neededNo
Pre-soaking recommendedNo

Planting & site

Physalis pruinosa: Planting and spacing

Planting outdoors

Plant outdoors or in a greenhouse after the last frost, from mid-May onwards. Ensure adequate spacing.

Plant spacing50 - 70 cm
Row spacing60 - 80 cm
Plants per m²2 - 3 per m²

Site & 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.

Temperature & frost

Physalis pruinosa: Temperature and site

Growing temperaturefrom 15 °C
Optimal temperature20 - 25 °C
Max. heatup to 30 °C
Soil temperature20 - 22 °C
Frost sensitiveYes
Late frost sensitiveYes
Heat tolerancemedium
Cold tolerancelow

Water & nutrients

Physalis pruinosa: Water, nutrients and care

Watermedium
Critical water phasesFlowering, Fruit development
Watering methodWater at the base
Droughtmedium
Waterlogging sensitiveYes
Mulching recommendedYes
Nutrient needmedium feeder
Compost recommendedYes
Fertilizer sensitivitylow

Container & growth

Physalis pruinosa: Container, support and growth

Container suitableYes
Pot sizeVolume: from 10 l; Recommended: from 20 l; Diameter: from 30 cm; Depth: from 25 cm
SupportNo; 60 - 100 cm
Height40 - 80 cm
Width50 - 70 cm
Yield100 - 300 g

Year plan

Physalis pruinosa Calendar

Plants

In late summer and autumn, Physalis pruinosa transforms into a sea of yellow fruits just waiting to be harvested.

Year overview
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Indoor sowing
Planting outdoors
Harvest

Relevant now

June

  • Fertilizinggrowth phase: Fertilize with a balanced liquid fertilizer if needed.
  • Pest controlregular inspection: Regularly inspect for pests such as aphids.

Next up

July

  • Supportplants are growing tall: Provide stakes or cages if plants become top-heavy.
  • Wateringdry weather: Ensure consistent watering, especially during dry spells.

Monthly tasks

Single tasks from monthly data; repeated seasonal windows are shown in the overview above.

Direct sowingPlantingHarvestGrowingPlant health

January

Quiet month

February

Quiet month

March

Sowing

Direct sowing

  • Sowingindoors: Sow indoors in a bright, warm location.

April

Pricking out

Growing

  • Pricking outseedlings are large enough: Prick out seedlings into individual pots when they are large enough.

May

Planting out

Planting

  • Planting outafter last frost: Plant out into the garden or greenhouse after the last frosts. Ensure adequate spacing.

June

FertilizingPest control

Growing

  • Fertilizinggrowth phase: Fertilize with a balanced liquid fertilizer if needed.

Plant health

  • Pest controlregular inspection: Regularly inspect for pests such as aphids.

July

SupportWatering

Growing

  • Supportplants are growing tall: Provide stakes or cages if plants become top-heavy.
  • Wateringdry weather: Ensure consistent watering, especially during dry spells.

August

Disease and pest control

Plant health

  • Disease and pest controlregular inspection: Monitor for signs of diseases or pest infestation and take appropriate action.

September

Harvesting

Harvest

  • Harvestingfruits are ripe: Harvest ripe fruits as they turn yellow and detach easily from the plant.

October

Final harvest

Harvest

  • Final harvestbefore first frost: Harvest all remaining ripe fruits before the first frost.

November

Quiet month

December

Quiet month

Flowering & pollination

Physalis pruinosa Flowering & pollination

Self-fertility

self-fertile

Pollinator needed

no

Overview

Physalis pruinosa is self-pollinating, but cross-pollination by wind or insects can enhance fruit set.

Notes

Although self-pollinating, plants benefit from the presence of insects like bees and bumblebees, which aid in pollination.

Companion guide

Physalis pruinosa Companion guide

Companion guide

Good neighbors

BasilMarigoldNasturtiumLettuce

Avoid

PotatotomatoPepperEggplant

Use & storage

Physalis pruinosa Use & storage

Harvest

Fruits are ripe when they turn yellow and fall from their papery husk. Harvest before the first frost.

Storage

Fresh, chilled, processed

Storage life

Fresh: 3-7 days in the refrigerator. Preserved or frozen: several months.

Harvest

Fruits are ripe when they turn yellow and fall from their papery husk. Harvest before the first frost.

Processing

JamJellyCompoteDryingFreezing

After harvest

Harvested fruits can be carefully removed from their husks and washed. They are delicate and should not be piled up.

Edibility & safety

Physalis pruinosa Edibility & safety

For people

In brief: which parts are edible, which parts remain risky, and whether raw consumption makes sense.

Edible parts:Fruit (ripe)
Caution parts:Unripe fruits, Leaves, Stems, Roots
Raw consumption:Ripe fruits can be consumed raw.

Safety notes

Unripe fruits and other plant parts contain alkaloids (like solanine) and are toxic. Only fully ripe fruits are edible.

Animal safety

For animals, the specific plant part matters here: some parts may be suitable, while others should be avoided. At least one critical rating is listed for 4 animal types.

Animal safety by plant part

Each row shows which parts are more suitable and which parts are critical.

Companion animals

Dog icon for animal safety ratingDog

Ripe fruits (without calyx)

Unripe fruits, Leaves, Stems

Risk factors

Ingestion of unripe fruits or other plant parts, Overconsumption

Symptoms

Gastrointestinal upset, Vomiting, Diarrhea

contact a vet if symptoms appear

Only fully ripe fruits are suitable for dogs in moderation as a treat. Unripe fruits, leaves, stems, and roots contain alkaloids (like solanine) and are toxic. Ingestion of larger quantities or unripe plant parts can cause gastrointestinal upset.

Open animal page
Cat icon for animal safety ratingCat

Ripe fruit (in very small amounts, as an occasional treat)

Unripe fruits, Leaves, Stems

Risk factors

Ingestion of large quantities, Ingestion of unripe fruits or other plant parts, Young animals

Symptoms

Gastrointestinal upset, Vomiting, Diarrhea

contact a vet if symptoms appear

Unripe fruits and other plant parts contain alkaloids like solanine and are toxic. Only fully ripe fruits are considered edible for humans, but should only be offered to cats in very small amounts and rarely as a treat, as they are not part of a cat's natural diet and even ripe fruits can cause gastrointestinal upset in sensitive animals.

Open animal page
Rabbit icon for animal safety ratingRabbit

No suitable parts listed

No risk parts listed

unknown

No reliable species-specific assessment is available.

Open animal page
Guinea pig icon for animal safety ratingGuinea pig

Ripe fruits

Unripe fruits, Leaves, Stems

Risk factors

Ingestion of unripe fruits or other plant parts, Overconsumption

Symptoms

Gastrointestinal upset (diarrhea), Lethargy

contact a vet if symptoms appear

Only fully ripe fruits may be offered in very small quantities as an occasional treat. All other plant parts, especially unripe fruits, leaves, and stems, contain alkaloids and are toxic. Guinea pigs cannot vomit.

Open animal page
Hamster icon for animal safety ratingHamster

Ripe fruits (in very small amounts as a treat)

Unripe fruits, Leaves, Stems

Risk factors

Ingestion of unripe fruits or other plant parts, Overconsumption of ripe fruits

Symptoms

Gastrointestinal upset (diarrhea), Lethargy

contact a vet if symptoms appear

Only fully ripe fruits may be offered in very small amounts as an occasional treat. All other plant parts, especially unripe fruits, leaves, and stems, contain toxic alkaloids and are unsuitable for hamsters. Hamsters cannot vomit.

Open animal page
Budgie icon for animal safety ratingBudgie

Ripe fruits (without calyx)

Unripe fruits, Leaves, Stems

Risk factors

Access to the entire plant, especially unripe fruits or green parts, Small body size of the budgie

Symptoms

Gastrointestinal upset (vomiting, diarrhea), Lethargy, Weakness

contact a vet if symptoms appear

Only fully ripe fruits, without the calyx, may be offered in very small quantities as an occasional treat. All other plant parts, especially unripe fruits, leaves, and stems, contain alkaloids (like solanine) and are toxic. Specific safety data for budgies is lacking, so caution is advised.

Open animal page

Farm animals

Horse icon for animal safety ratingHorse

No suitable parts listed

Unripe fruits, Leaves, Stems

Risk factors

Access to plants in pastures or gardens, Ingestion of unripe fruits or other plant parts

Symptoms

Gastrointestinal upset, Colic, Lethargy

contact a vet if symptoms appear

The plant contains alkaloids (such as solanine), which are concentrated in unripe fruits, leaves, stems, and roots. These parts are toxic to horses. While ripe fruits are edible for humans, distinguishing them for horses is difficult, and the risk of ingesting toxic plant parts is high. Therefore, the plant is not recommended for horses.

Open animal page
Chicken icon for animal safety ratingChicken

Ripe fruits (in very small quantities, without stem and calyx)

Unripe fruits, Leaves, Stems

Risk factors

Access to unripe fruits or other plant parts, High intake

Symptoms

Gastrointestinal upset (vomiting, diarrhea), Lethargy, Weakness

contact a vet if symptoms appear

While ripe Physalis pruinosa fruits are edible for humans, unripe fruits, leaves, stems, and roots contain alkaloids like solanine, which can be toxic to chickens. As chickens tend to peck at various plant parts, the plant is generally not recommended. Ripe fruits should only be offered in very small quantities and without the calyx as an occasional treat, considering the risk of ingesting toxic parts.

Open animal page
Duck icon for animal safety ratingDuck

Ripe fruits (in moderation)

Unripe fruits, Leaves, Stems

Risk factors

Consumption of unripe fruits or other plant parts, Large quantities

Symptoms

Gastrointestinal upset, Weakness, Neurological signs

contact a vet if symptoms appear

Strawberry groundcherries belong to the nightshade family (Solanaceae). Unripe fruits and all vegetative parts of the plant contain alkaloids like solanine, which are toxic. Only fully ripe fruits are considered safe for consumption in moderation. Ducks are omnivores and foragers, and may ingest toxic plant parts while grazing.

Open animal page
Goose icon for animal safety ratingGoose

No suitable parts listed

Unripe fruits, Leaves, Stems

Risk factors

Access to unripe fruits or other plant parts, Consumption of large quantities, Young or sick animals

Symptoms

Gastrointestinal upset (vomiting, diarrhea), Lethargy

contact a vet if symptoms appear

Unripe fruits and other plant parts contain alkaloids (like solanine) and are toxic. Only fully ripe fruits are suitable as a very small treat. As geese are grazing animals and might consume leaves and stems, the plant is generally not recommended.

Open animal page
Sheep icon for animal safety ratingSheep

Ripe fruits (in very small amounts as a treat)

Unripe fruits, Leaves, Stems

Risk factors

Access to plant material, Consumption of unripe fruits or other plant parts, Lack of alternative forage

Symptoms

Gastrointestinal upset (diarrhea), Lethargy, Weakness

emergency vet immediately

All parts of the plant, especially the leaves and unripe fruit, contain solanine, a glycoalkaloid, which is toxic to sheep. Ripe fruit is generally considered safe, but consumption of other plant parts is not recommended and can cause severe symptoms.

Open animal page
Goat icon for animal safety ratingGoat

No suitable parts listed

Unripe fruits, Leaves, Stems

Risk factors

Access to unripe fruits or other plant parts, Grazing in areas where the plant is present

Symptoms

Gastrointestinal upset (diarrhea), Lethargy, Weakness

contact a vet if ingested

The plant contains alkaloids like solanine in unripe fruits and vegetative parts, which can be toxic to goats. Only fully ripe fruits are considered edible for humans, but there are no specific feeding data for goats. Ingestion of other plant parts should be avoided.

Open animal page
Cattle icon for animal safety ratingCattle

No suitable parts listed

Unripe fruits, Leaves, Stems

Risk factors

Access to plants in pastures, Consumption of unripe fruits or vegetative parts

Symptoms

Gastrointestinal upset (diarrhea, abdominal pain), Neurological symptoms (ataxia, weakness, tremors), Salivation

contact a vet if symptoms appear

Physalis pruinosa belongs to the nightshade family (Solanaceae). Unripe fruits and all vegetative parts contain alkaloids like solanine, which can be toxic to cattle. Ripe fruits are edible for humans but not suitable as feed for cattle.

Open animal page
Pig icon for animal safety ratingPig

Ripe fruits (in moderation)

Unripe fruits, Leaves, Stems

Risk factors

Consumption of large quantities, Consumption of unripe fruits or other plant parts, Access to whole plants

Symptoms

Gastrointestinal upset, Vomiting, Diarrhea

contact a vet if symptoms appear

Unripe fruits and other plant parts contain alkaloids like solanine, which are toxic to pigs. Ripe fruits may be offered in small quantities as a treat, but should not be a primary food source, as pigs might ingest toxic plant parts while foraging.

Open animal page

These guidelines are for general information only and do not replace veterinary diagnosis. If critical plant parts were ingested or the animal shows unusual behaviour or symptoms, seek veterinary advice.

Max risk

unknown

Highest status

do not feed

Urgency

emergency vet immediately

Saving seed

Physalis pruinosa Saving seed

Seed viability

2 - 3 years

Practical tips

Physalis pruinosa Practical tips

Common beginner mistakes

Planting out too early before the danger of frost has passed.Insufficient plant spacing, leading to poor ventilation and increased disease risk.Excessive nitrogen fertilization, resulting in too much foliage growth and little fruit production.

Success pattern

Planting out pre-grown seedlings in early summer, ensuring consistent watering, and harvesting ripe fruits regularly.Providing support as needed to prevent plants from breaking under the weight of the fruit.

High-impact tips

Mulch the soil around the plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.Plant basil or marigolds nearby to deter pests.

Grower observations

Many gardeners are surprised by how easy Physalis pruinosa is once established outdoors. The fruits often drop on their own, making harvesting simple.The sweetness of the fruits varies greatly depending on sunlight exposure. They taste best in a full sun location.

Plant Profile

Additional plant images

Physalis pruinosa (Physalis pruinosa): flower and fruit for plant portrait - Fruit vegetables, Nightshade family, Harvest
Physalis pruinosa (Physalis pruinosa): flower and fruit for plant portrait - Fruit vegetables, Nightshade family, Harvest
Physalis pruinosa (Physalis pruinosa): flower and fruit for plant portrait - Fruit vegetables, Nightshade family, Harvest
Physalis pruinosa (Physalis pruinosa): plant portrait - Fruit vegetables, Nightshade family, Harvest July - October
Physalis pruinosa (Physalis pruinosa): plant portrait - Fruit vegetables, Nightshade family, Harvest July - October
Physalis pruinosa (Physalis pruinosa): plant portrait - Fruit vegetables, Nightshade family, Harvest July - October
Physalis pruinosa (Physalis pruinosa): whole plant for plant portrait - Fruit vegetables, Nightshade family, Harvest July

Health

Pests, Diseases

Plant health

AphidsSpider mitesSlugsPowdery mildewGray moldPotassium deficiencyMagnesium deficiencyPoor fruit set

Diagnosis help

Physalis pruinosa Diagnosis help

Pest groups

AphidsSpider mitesSlugs

Disease groups

Powdery mildewGray mold (Botrytis)

Prevention

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

Observe symptoms carefully. Differentiate between pests, diseases, and nutrient deficiencies. Consider growing conditions.

Cultural prevention

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.

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.

Diagnostic rules

White, powdery coating on leaves and stems.

Possible causes: Powdery mildew physalis pruinosa

  • Is air circulation good?
  • Are the plants planted too densely?
  • Are the leaves moist, even in the evening?

Gray, fuzzy coating on fruits and leaves, often with rot.

Possible causes: Gray mold physalis pruinosa

  • Are fruits or leaves injured?
  • Is humidity very high?
  • Is there waterlogging?

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.

Is Physalis pruinosa safe for Dog?

Physalis pruinosa is classified as selected parts only for Dog. Risk: unknown. Urgency: contact a vet if symptoms appear. Only fully ripe fruits are suitable for dogs in moderation as a treat. Unripe fruits, leaves, stems, and roots contain alkaloids (like solanine) and are toxic. Ingestion of larger quantities or unripe plant parts can cause gastrointestinal upset.

Is Physalis pruinosa safe for Cat?

Physalis pruinosa is classified as selected parts only for Cat. Risk: unknown. Urgency: contact a vet if symptoms appear. Unripe fruits and other plant parts contain alkaloids like solanine and are toxic. Only fully ripe fruits are considered edible for humans, but should only be offered to cats in very small amounts and rarely as a treat, as they are not part of a cat's natural diet and even ripe fruits can cause gastrointestinal upset in sensitive animals.

Is Physalis pruinosa safe for Rabbit?

Physalis pruinosa is classified as not established for Rabbit. Risk: unknown. Urgency: unknown. No reliable species-specific assessment is available.

Is Physalis pruinosa safe for Guinea pig?

Physalis pruinosa is classified as selected parts only for Guinea pig. Risk: unknown. Urgency: contact a vet if symptoms appear. Only fully ripe fruits may be offered in very small quantities as an occasional treat. All other plant parts, especially unripe fruits, leaves, and stems, contain alkaloids and are toxic. Guinea pigs cannot vomit.

Guides

Related guides

Garden guides

Sources

Public sources

  1. Wikidata entity

    Wikidata · 2026-05-11

  2. GBIF species match

    GBIF · 2026-05-11

  3. Deutschsprachige Wikipedia: Physalis pruinosa

    Wikipedia · 2026-05-11

  4. English Wikipedia: Physalis pruinosa

    Wikipedia · 2026-05-11

  5. Trefle API species data

    Trefle · 2026-05-11

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