Organic 'Aunt Molly' ground cherry (Physalis pruinosa) from McKenzie seed company, a fruity and delicious heritage variety
The 'Aunt Molly' ground cherry is an old variety originating from Poland, prized for its sweet and aromatic flavor as well as its versatility in the kitchen. The plant has a spreading, bushy habit , with tender green foliage typical of physalis, and produces numerous small, round fruits measuring approximately 1.3 to 1.8 cm in diameter . When ripe, the fruits turn a golden orange and detach naturally from the plant, falling to the ground, still encased in their papery calyx , signaling that they are ready to be harvested.
Highly prized for its fruity flavor reminiscent of a blend of strawberry and citrus , the 'Aunt Molly' ground cherry is ideal for jams, tarts, desserts, fruit salads, or simply eaten fresh. Easy to grow and well-suited to temperate climates, this variety also attracts pollinators , contributing to garden biodiversity while providing an abundant harvest.
Spread/Habit: Spreading, bushy
Plant height: Approximately 45 cm
Seed producer: McKenzie
Seed type: Open pollination
Certification: Certified organic
Quantity per packet: Approximately 100 to 110 seeds
Special features: Heritage variety, fruit falls when ripe, natural protective husk, very aromatic
Fruit color: Orange to golden yellow
Flavor: Sweet, fruity, reminiscent of strawberry and citrus fruits
Tolerance: Good tolerance to heat and moderate drought
Farming method
Start seeds indoors 6 to 8 weeks before the last frost . Sow them about 6 mm deep in light, well-draining potting soil, and keep the soil consistently moist until germination, which usually occurs in 10 to 21 days . Once all risk of frost has passed, gradually harden off the seedlings before transplanting.
Transplant to a sunny location in rich, well-drained soil, spacing the plants 60 to 90 cm apart to allow for spreading growth. Ground cherries generally do not require staking , but mulching can help keep the fruit clean as it falls to the ground. Water regularly during establishment, then moderately thereafter.
Harvesting and maintenance
The fruit ripens approximately 70 days after transplanting . Harvest the ground cherries when they fall naturally to the ground and their outer skin turns dry and beige. Remove the calyx before eating. Moderate watering, equivalent to 2.5 to 5 cm of water per week , is sufficient once the plants are well established.
Usage ideas
• Jams and jellies
• Pies and desserts
• Fresh fruit salads
• Yogurt or ice cream topping
• Best eaten fresh when fully ripe
The organic 'Aunt Molly' ground cherry from McKenzie Seeds is a generous and reliable plant , offering an abundant harvest of small, tasty fruits with minimal maintenance. A sure bet for gardeners looking for an old, productive variety with strong culinary potential .
