Cape gooseberry
| Botanical Name | Physalis peruviana |
|---|---|
| Family | Solanaceae |
| Origin | Tropical South America |
Identification
Herb, grows up to 1m tall, densely hairy. Flowers pale yellow with patches of purple toward base, Jan-Dec. Fruit 10-20 mm diameter orange, sweet and enclosed in a lantern-like persistent calyx.Habitats
Open habitats such as roadsides, waste places, forest margins, beaches, freshwater mudflats and cultivated ground. Widespread and usually seen as scattered individuals.Impact to Biota and Ecosystems
Scattered individuals through open and disturbed areas which have no notable impact.Dispersal Routes, Vectors, Infestation Sources
An escape from cultivation. Fruit eaten and seed dispersed by animals.Management
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Management |
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| Physical Control |
All plants are easily removed by hand. |
| Disposal | |
| Chemical Control |
Glyphosate at 100 ml to 10 litres of water may be used on very large areas. |
|
Biological Control |
|
| Recommended Approach |
Hand weeding is simple and effective. |