How to grow Cape Gooseberry

Here is a detailed guide about everything you need to know to grow Cape Gooseberry, including when and how to plant, care for and harvest. 

Other names: Physalis, Ground-Cherry, Golden Berry, Uchuva, Inca Berry, Unilla, Peruvian Golden Berry, Peruvian Ground Cherry, Poha Berry, Aztec Berry

Cape Gooseberry will adapt to most soil conditions, provided that the soil is well draining. The plant will not tolerate waterlogged soil. Mix in some well rotted compost before planting. 

Plant Cape Gooseberry in full sun to afternoon shade, sheltered from strong winds. 

No, Cape Gooseberry is not frost tolerant. 

Plant Cape Gooseberry at least 50cm apart. 

Plant Cape Gooseberry out in early spring once the danger of frost has passed. Seeds can take 14-21 days to germinate, so it is recommended to start seeds indoors in winter so they are ready to be planted out in spring.  

Cape Gooseberry seeds are very small and should only be lightly covered with soil. You can also sprinkle them on the surface of the soil and water them in, allowing them to sink into the soil naturally.  

When transplanting seedlings, plant out in the early morning or evening and/or on an overcast day. Avoid planting at peak sun times or on windy days, this will allow your plants to settle in comfortably and protect them from windburn and sunburn. 

Feeding for Cape Gooseberry is generally not required if the soil is prepared well. A light application of organic fertiliser can be added if the leaves begin to show signs of nutrient deficiency. 

Harvest Cape Gooseberries once the outer casing turns brown. The berries often fall to the ground when ripe and are still fine to eat. 

Pests that affect Cape Gooseberry include: Red Spider Mite, Aphids, Cutworm, Stem Borer, Cucumber Beetle, Potato Beetle, Flea Beetle, Fruit Moth. 

Diseases that affect Cape Gooseberry include: Powdery Mildew, Mosaic Virus. 

Unripe fruit, leaves and flowers of the Cape Gooseberry plant are poisonous to both humans and animals and can have some very negative side effects if consumed. Only eat fruit which is completely ripe (yellow to orange in colour). 

 Plants may require staking for support and protection from strong winds.