How much sun does Smallflower Groundcherry need?

Smallflower Groundcherry grows best in full sun conditions.

When does Smallflower Groundcherry bloom?

Smallflower Groundcherry blooms in June, July, August, and September.

Where is Smallflower Groundcherry native?

Smallflower Groundcherry (Physalis cinerascens) is native to AR, KS, LA, MO and 3 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.

What pollinators does Smallflower Groundcherry attract?

Smallflower Groundcherry draws bees and beetles.

Is Smallflower Groundcherry HOA-friendly?

Smallflower Groundcherry takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Smallflower Groundcherry

Name: Pollinator Patch
Author: Pollinator Patch

Physalis cinerascens

Last reviewed: July 2026

Light

full sun

Water

low

Size

6"–24" H × 6"–18" W

Bloom

Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep

Native to

AR, KS, LA, MO and 3 more states

Pollinators

bees, beetles

Browse plants for this ecoregion

Chihuahuan Deserts Central Oklahoma/Texas Plains Edwards Plateau Southern Texas Plains Texas Blackland Prairies East Central Texas Plains Western Gulf Coastal Plain South Central Plains

Physalis cinerascens is a low-growing native ground cherry that produces small yellow flowers followed by papery lantern-like husks containing small fruits. This drought-tolerant perennial spreads moderately and blooms from summer through early fall. The plant has a somewhat informal appearance with soft, grayish-green foliage.

In an HOA neighborhood

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

Works well in: backyard only.

Can appear weedy or unkempt
Papery husks may look messy
Spreading habit may appear uncontrolled

Wildlife value

The flowers attract bees and beetles during the long blooming season from June through September. The fruits may also provide food for small wildlife and birds.

Common questions

How much sun does Smallflower Groundcherry need?: Smallflower Groundcherry grows best in full sun conditions.
When does Smallflower Groundcherry bloom?: Smallflower Groundcherry blooms in June, July, August, and September.
Where is Smallflower Groundcherry native?: Smallflower Groundcherry (Physalis cinerascens) is native to AR, KS, LA, MO and 3 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
What pollinators does Smallflower Groundcherry attract?: Smallflower Groundcherry draws bees and beetles.
Is Smallflower Groundcherry HOA-friendly?: Smallflower 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 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 Smallflower Groundcherry? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.

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