Ground-cherry
Physalis pubescens
Last reviewed: July 2026
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
12"–24" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AL, AR, AZ, CA and 25 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Ground-cherry is a compact annual herb that produces small yellow flowers followed by distinctive papery husks containing edible orange berries. This native plant grows in a neat, bushy form and provides late-season interest with its ornamental lantern-like seed pods. The plant self-seeds readily and can naturalize in favorable conditions.
In an HOA neighborhood
Ground-cherry 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.
- Sprawling growth habit appears untidy
- Can self-seed aggressively and spread beyond intended areas
- Annual lifecycle leaves gaps in plantings
Wildlife value
The flowers attract native bees and beneficial beetles during the long summer blooming period. The seeds and fruits provide food for small birds and wildlife.
Common questions
- How much sun does Ground-cherry need?
- Ground-cherry grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Ground-cherry bloom?
- Ground-cherry blooms in June, July, August, and September.
- Where is Ground-cherry native?
- Ground-cherry (Physalis pubescens) is native to AL, AR, AZ, CA and 25 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Ground-cherry attract?
- Ground-cherry draws bees and beetles.
- Is Ground-cherry HOA-friendly?
- Ground-cherry 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 the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Ground-cherry? 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