Husk-tomato
Physalis philadelphica
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
12"–36" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
MN
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Husk-tomato is an annual plant that produces small yellow flowers followed by papery husks containing edible fruits. It grows in an upright, bushy form and blooms from summer through early fall. The plant self-seeds readily and can spread in garden areas.
In an HOA neighborhood
Husk-tomato 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.
- Looks like a weedy vegetable plant
- Papery husks can appear messy
- Annual growth creates gaps in plantings
Wildlife value
The flowers attract bees and butterflies during the long blooming period from June through September. The seeds and fruits may also provide food for birds.
Common questions
- How much sun does Husk-tomato need?
- Husk-tomato grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Husk-tomato bloom?
- Husk-tomato blooms in June, July, August, and September.
- Where is Husk-tomato native?
- Husk-tomato (Physalis philadelphica) is native to MN, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Husk-tomato attract?
- Husk-tomato draws bees and butterflies.
- Is Husk-tomato HOA-friendly?
- Husk-tomato 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 Husk-tomato? 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