Cutleaf Groundcherry / Camapu (Physalis angulata) - Seeds - Compact wild fruit from Brazil

Scope of delivery: 15 seeds each

*Physalis angulata* differs from the better-known Cape gooseberry (*Physalis peruviana*) by its significantly more compact, herbaceous growth and characteristic angular or edged stems. Furthermore, it is often even more robust and vigorous in cultivation. Under optimal conditions, it produces countless fruits starting in midsummer, each protected within a delicate, lantern-like calyx.

The cutleaf groundcherry grows as an annual, heavily branched plant. Unlike many of its tomato relatives, pruning of side shoots is not necessary here and is even counterproductive, as the flowers and fruits form exactly on these numerous branches. For healthy growth, a warm, sunny to at most partially shaded location is recommended. The substrate should be well-drained; too many nutrients (especially nitrogen) lead to massive foliage growth at the expense of flower and fruit production. The plant must be watered regularly on hot summer days, but it tolerates short dry spells significantly better than other nightshade plants. It should only be planted outdoors after the "Ice Saints" (mid-May), when there is no longer a risk of frost.

As soon as the papery lanterns dry out, turn pale brown, and fall to the ground, the pale yellow to greenish-yellow berries hidden inside are fully ripe. In terms of taste, *Physalis angulata* is a highly complex tropical surprise: the focus is on a full-bodied, fruity sweetness reminiscent of a dessert made with honeydew melon, ripe mango, and a hint of vanilla. This experience is rounded off by an extremely fine, refreshingly acidic note in the background, which perfectly balances the sweet profile and is reminiscent of ripe pineapple. The fruits are excellent for snacking on directly from the lantern, but are also wonderful for exotic jams.

*Physalis angulata* originally comes from the tropical and subtropical regions of South and Central America, with its natural center of distribution in the Amazon basin. In Brazil, it is known by the name "Camapu" and has been valued there by the indigenous population for centuries, not only as a delicious wild fruit but also for its traditional properties. Thanks to its high adaptability, the plant has spread across almost all tropical and subtropical zones of the world over the centuries and today enjoys steadily growing popularity in Central European home gardens as an exotic snack fruit.