Product Overview
Aunt Molly’s Ground Cherry is a well loved heirloom variety known for its distinctive sweet flavour and reliable productivity. The vigorous plants spread generously, reaching about 24 to 36 inches in height and width, and produce abundant small fruits enclosed in delicate papery husks. As they mature, the lantern like husks fade from green while the fruit inside turns a warm golden yellow. Each cherry sized berry delivers a smooth, juicy texture with a rich tropical character, highlighted by notes reminiscent of pineapple and vanilla with a mild balancing tang. When fully ripe, the fruits naturally fall from the plant, making harvest easy and convenient. This early maturing variety is ready in approximately 70 to 75 days and continues to set fruit steadily until frost. For best performance, grow in full sun, provide moderate and consistent moisture, and allow ample space for the plants to sprawl and maximize yields.
Aunt Molly’s Ground Cherry (Physalis pruinosa)
A charming heirloom variety treasured for its sweet, tropical flavour and dependable garden performance.
| Days to Maturity | 70–75 days |
| Plant Size | Spreading plants 24–36" tall and wide |
| Exposure | Full sun |
| Start Indoors | Start 6–8 weeks before last frost; transplant after danger of frost has passed. |
| Direct Sow | Direct sow after all danger of frost when soil has warmed. |
| Seed Depth / Germination | Sow ¼" deep. Germinates in 7–14 days at 70–75°F (21–24°C). |
| Spacing | Space plants 24–36" apart to allow for spreading habit. |
| Soil & Water | Well-drained soil with moderate, consistent moisture. Avoid overwatering once established. |
| Special Traits | Early bearing; prolific yields; fruits drop when ripe; continues producing until frost. |
| Flavor & Uses | Sweet and tropical with hints of pineapple and vanilla. Excellent for fresh eating, pies, jams, and preserves. |
| Harvest | Harvest fruits after they drop naturally from the plant and husks turn papery tan. Remove husks before storing. |
