Cape Gooseberry         'Golden Gem'

Physalis peruviana

Buy Cape Gooseberry

Perennial plant from Peru to approx. 1m tall. Bears small sweet tasting, golden yellow berries in its first season.

FEATURES: Wrinkled, heart-shaped foliage and round, green berries surrounded by a green husk which protects the fruit from insects. When ripe, the husk turns yellow and the berries within become golden yellow with a golden flesh. After harvest, retain husk around berries to prolong shelf life.

CONDITIONS: Prefers moist, well drained soil in a sunny position.

FOR BEST RESULTS: Protect plants from heavy frosts. Tip prune during the growing season to promote bushy growth. Remove dead wood in Spring. Mulch with manure annually.

PLANTING IDEAS AND USES:

• eat berries fresh from the tree

• berries may be stewed or baked in pies and tarts

• make jam

• excellent for decorative pots and containers on balconies.where plants grow and fruit well