Aunt Molly's Ground Cherry (Physalis pruinosa)

Sun-Warmed Fruit Wrapped in Gold Aunt Molly’s Ground Cherry is a charming, low-growing heirloom that dots the garden with lantern-like husks that glow pale gold as they ripen. Its softly spreading branches hold velvety, heart-shaped leaves and delicate, star-faced yellow blossoms that mature into papery pods—each enclosing a small, sun-sweetened fruit. Native to the warm, open meadows and woodland edges of Central and South America, this compact annual thrives in full light and well-drained soil, flourishing as a dependable summer producer. When fully ripe, the husks dry to a whispery tan and the berries drop gently to the ground, signaling their peak flavor and readiness. Inside each little husk lies a treasure: a bright, honeyed, pineapple-meets-vanilla flavor that makes this small fruit truly extraordinary. Aunt Molly’s is one of the sweetest, most aromatic ground cherries, prized for its exceptional snacking quality, long shelf life, and generous yields. Its golden fruits bring a b