Physalis
Physalis (Physalis peruviana, Solanaceae)
English: physalis, Inca berry, Cape gooseberry
French: coqueret du Pérou, cerise de terre, groseille du Cap
Swedish: kapkrusbär
The origin of the Physalis plant is in the Andes. It is today cultivated in Europe too. Also in the Casita Verde we grow it for its tasty fruits.
The fruits have several medicinal uses. Due to their diuretic properties they are recommended for people with prostate problems. They are used as a tranquilizer. It is said that they purify the blood. They tonilize the optic nerve and thus are good for the eyes.
The fruits contain much vitamin C, provitamin A and different B vitamins, as well as iron.
The closely related bladder cherry (Chinese lantern, Physalis alkekengi) is mainly grown as an ornamental plant. Sometimes its fruits are eaten although some botanists presume they are slightly poisonous.
