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Coastal Groundcherry

Physalis angustifolia

Last reviewed: August 2026

Coastal Groundcherry (Physalis angustifolia) is a annual forb native to AL, FL, LA, MS. It blooms in June, July, August, and September. The flowers draw bees and beetles.

Coastal Groundcherry (Physalis angustifolia)
Photo: Mason Brock (Masebrock) / Wikimedia Commons (Public domain)

Toxicity unknown

Coastal Groundcherry (Physalis angustifolia) is not listed by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (opens in new tab) or the other sources we check, so we have no verdict for it either way. Absence from those lists is not a clearance. If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.

Light

full sun

Water

medium

Size

6"–24" H × 6"–12" W

Bloom

Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep

Native to

AL, FL, LA, MS

Pollinators

bees, beetles

Before you buy

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Coastal groundcherry is a compact annual wildflower that produces small yellow blooms from summer through early fall. This low-growing native plant forms neat mounds and develops papery lantern-like seed pods that add seasonal interest to the garden.

Growing Coastal Groundcherry

Grow Coastal Groundcherry in full sun and medium water. Mature plants reach 6 to 24 inches tall and spread 6 to 12 inches wide. Expect moderate maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.

In an HOA neighborhood

Coastal Groundcherry takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: moderate. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Works well in: backyard only.

  • Annual lifecycle creates gaps in plantings
  • Common name includes 'groundcherry' which may sound weedy
  • Papery seed pods can appear untidy to some

Wildlife value

The flowers attract native bees and beneficial beetles during its long blooming period from June through September.

Common questions

How much sun does Coastal Groundcherry need?
Coastal Groundcherry grows best in full sun conditions.
When does Coastal Groundcherry bloom?
Coastal Groundcherry blooms in June, July, August, and September.
Where is Coastal Groundcherry native?
Coastal Groundcherry (Physalis angustifolia) is native to AL, FL, LA, MS, per vouchered herbarium specimen records and regional native plant society lists.
What pollinators does Coastal Groundcherry attract?
Coastal Groundcherry draws bees and beetles.
Is Coastal Groundcherry HOA-friendly?
Coastal Groundcherry takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Native range data from vouchered herbarium specimen records and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.

Ready to grow Coastal Groundcherry? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.

Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz