Physalis heterophylla

Common names: clammy ground cherry, husk tomato, tomatillo, Chinese lantern, strawberry tomato, and popweed

Perennial plant with edible fruit that resembles a cherry tomato. The fruit is encased in a papery, inflated covering. Ripe when yellow. Native through much of the American Midwest; from Canada to Louisiana, west to Nebraska and into Colorado.

Sow seeds March/April in a greenhouse only just covering the seed. Germination usually takes place quickly and freely. Prick out the seedlings into individual pots of fairly rich soil when they are large enough to handle and plant them out after the last expected frosts. Consider giving them some protection such as a cloche until they are growing away well. Diurnal temperature fluctuations assist germination.

Division in spring. Very easy, larger divisions can be planted out direct into their permanent positions.