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Ground cherry (Physalis spp.) is a native perennial in the nightshade family that produces edible berries in late summer-fall. It can be found in sunny fields or disturbed ground with sandy soil.
There are about 30 species of ground cherry that grow in the United States.
Ground cherry has toothed, wavy, or smooth leaves. Flowers are yellow with purple centers. The fruit is enclosed in a 5-part, inflated, papery husk. When the fruit is ripe, the husk will turn brown, and the berry will turn yellowish.
Ripe, yellow berries can be snacked on raw, dried, or turned into jam or sauces. The fruit tastes similar to tomatillos. Unripe, green berries and all other parts of the plant are toxic.
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Written by Amy Demers, founder of the Connecticut Foraging Club. To learn more about foraging in Connecticut, check out our upcoming classes.
One Response
They look like chickpeas to me. I’ve never tried one but I will now. Thanks for the article.