Overview
Physalis foetens var. neomexicana, also known as Waterfall Groundcherry, is a flowering plant that belongs to the Solanaceae family. This plant is native to North America, especially in the central and southwestern regions of the United States and Mexico.
General Appearance
The Waterfall Groundcherry is a herbaceous plant that typically grows up to 2 feet tall. It has green, sticky, and hairy stems that bear oval-shaped leaves that are slightly hairy on the underside. Its flowers are yellow, bell-shaped, and 5-lobed, which grow in the axils of the leaves. The plant also produces small, orange-yellow, edible fruits that are enclosed in a papery husk.
Common Names
Aside from Waterfall Groundcherry, Physalis foetens var. neomexicana is also known by other common names such as Sticky Groundcherry, Yellow Groundcherry, Tomatillo Pequeno, and New Mexican Groundcherry.
Uses
Physalis foetens var. neomexicana has several uses. The fruit of this plant is edible and was traditionally used by Native Americans as food and medicine. Today, it is still being used for culinary purposes, such as in making jams, jellies, and pies. The plant is also known for its medicinal properties, as it is believed to have anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor effects. In addition, some people use Waterfall Groundcherry to treat arthritis, rheumatism, and other respiratory ailments.
In terms of cultivation, Physalis foetens var. neomexicana can be grown in gardens as an ornamental plant. Its attractive and colorful fruits, together with its foliage, make it a great addition to any garden especially in dry regions.
Light Requirements
Physalis foetens Poir. var. neomexicana (Rydb.) Waterfall prefer full to partial sun exposure. It is an adaptable plant and can tolerate a range of light conditions. However, it is better to grow it in a spot where it can receive 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Temperature Requirements
This plant variety prefers warm temperatures, between 70-90°F. It can tolerate higher temperatures but may require extra watering during hot spells. It cannot handle frost or winter conditions, so it is mostly grown in warmer climates or indoors during the winter season.
Soil Requirements
Physalis foetens Poir. var. neomexicana (Rydb.) Waterfall requires well-draining soil that is not too rich in nutrients. It grows best in sandy or rocky soils with a pH between 6.0-8.0. It is also recommended to add organic matter to the soil when planting, such as compost or peat moss, to improve soil structure and fertility.
Cultivation methods
Physalis foetens Poir. var. neomexicana (Rydb.) Waterfall, commonly known as New Mexican ground cherry, is a sun-loving plant that thrives in well-drained soil. It can tolerate different types of soils, but it must be well-draining. New Mexican ground cherry is not difficult to grow and can either be grown from seed or transplanted from a nursery.
Seeds can be started indoors about eight weeks before your last expected frost date. Plant the seeds in trays filled with a seed starting mix, and keep them moist and warm until they sprout. After the last expected frost date, transplant the seedlings in the garden, spacing them about 18 inches apart.
If you choose to transplant from a nursery, select healthy and vigorous plants and plant them in well-draining soil. Make sure you do not bury the plant too deep, and water them well after planting.
Watering needs
Like most plants, Physalis foetens Poir. var. neomexicana (Rydb.) Waterfall requires regular watering, especially during dry periods. However, over-watering can lead to root rot and other problems. It is important to strike a balance between watering the plant regularly and not over-watering it.
The frequency of watering depends on factors such as temperature, humidity, and soil conditions. If the soil is dry to the touch, it is time to water the plant. Irrigate the plant in the morning to avoid wet leaves overnight, which can promote fungal growth.
Fertilization
New Mexican ground cherry is relatively low-maintenance and does not require heavy fertilization. However, it benefits from a balanced fertilizer once or twice a year. You can apply the fertilizer in early spring and late summer. Use a fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Avoid over-fertilizing the plant, as it can lead to excessive vegetative growth and reduced fruit production.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Physalis foetens Poir. var. neomexicana (Rydb.) Waterfall. However, you can pinch back the tips of young plants to promote bushier growth. You can also remove any diseased or dead plant parts to maintain plant health. Harvesting the fruit regularly can also encourage more fruit production.
Propagation of Physalis foetens Poir. var. neomexicana (Rydb.) Waterfall
Physalis foetens Poir. var. neomexicana (Rydb.) Waterfall, commonly known as the New Mexico groundcherry, is a perennial herb native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It is a member of the nightshade family, Solanaceae, and is known for its edible fruit.
Seed Propagation
Propagation of Physalis foetens can be done through seed. The seeds should be sown in the early spring in a seed-starting mix that is kept moist and at a temperature of 60-70°F. The seeds should germinate within two weeks and can be transplanted into individual pots once they have developed their second set of leaves. Seedlings should be hardened off before planting in the garden.
Division Propagation
Propagation of Physalis foetens can also be done through division. Division should be done in the early spring before new growth begins. The plant should be gently lifted from the ground and the roots teased apart. Each division should have several shoots and a healthy root system. Divisions should be replanted at the same depth as they were growing previously and watered well.
Root Cuttings Propagation
Propagation through root cuttings can also be successful. Root cuttings should be taken in the fall after the plant has gone dormant. The roots should be cut into 2-3 inch sections and planted in a well-draining potting mix. The cuttings should be kept moist and at a temperature of 60-70°F. After several weeks, new growth should appear, and the plant can be transplanted into the garden or larger containers.
Disease and Pest Management for Physalis Foetens Poir. var. Neomexicana (Rydb.) Waterfall
Physalis foetens Poir. var. neomexicana (Rydb.) Waterfall, or New Mexican groundcherry, is a member of the nightshade family Solanaceae. Like other plants in this family, it is susceptible to various diseases and pests. Here are some common ones and management strategies.
Diseases
One of the most common diseases affecting Physalis foetens is Verticillium wilt. This is a fungal disease that causes leaves to wilt and turn yellow before eventually dying. To manage this disease, avoid planting infected plants and rotate crops as the fungus can survive in the soil. Prune infected branches and leaves. Using a fungicide may also be helpful, but it is important to follow instructions and apply the fungicide at recommended rates and intervals. Other fungal diseases that can affect the plant include powdery mildew, leaf spot, and root rot.
Pests
One of the most problematic pests for Physalis foetens is the tomato fruitworm (Helicoverpa zea). This pest feeds on leaves and fruits, causing extensive damage. To manage this pest, handpick and destroy infected fruits when possible. You can also use insecticides that contain Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt), which is a non-toxic bacterium that is toxic only to certain pests like tomato fruitworm. Other pests that can affect the plant include aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. Pest management for these pests involves using insecticides labeled for their control, introducing predators like ladybugs and lacewings, and pruning infested leaves and branches.
It is important to note that prevention is always better than cure, so taking measures to prevent diseases and pests from attacking the plant is recommended. Crop rotation, maintaining proper soil health and fertility, and providing plants with optimal growing conditions can help prevent diseases and pests from attacking the plant. Regular observation and monitoring of the plants can also help detect early signs of diseases and pests which can then be managed accordingly.
