Ground Cherries comprise about 80 species within the Nightshade family (Solanaceae). They are widely distributed around the world, mostly in the Americas. The papery husk that surrounds the fruits of many species has attractive colors and remains on the fruit throughout the winter, giving a decorative appearance. The fruits of some species are edible. Among those used decoratively, Physalis alkekengi—the Chinese Lantern—is especially notable for its red husk.
Today we will introduce Physalis peruviana, known in our country as Yer Kirazı.

This fruit, which has only recently begun to be recognized in our country, originates from South America and grows naturally at high altitudes in Peru, Colombia, Chile, and Ecuador. Since its cultivation began in the 1800s in the Cape of Good Hope region of South Africa, it has been called Cape Gooseberry in English-speaking countries. After South Africa, the plant was brought to Australia, China, and India, where commercial production also began.

Yer Kirazı, a member of the Solanaceae family, has edible fruits. The round fruits, 12–20 mm in diameter, are enclosed in a thin, papery husk resembling that of the Chinese Lantern. The fruits are green and sour at first, and become deep yellow and sweet when ripe. They can be eaten raw, used in fruit salads, ice cream, various desserts, or made into jam. The fruit has a more appealing appearance when the thin husk remains attached, and if the husk is not removed, its shelf life at room temperature is 30–40 days. Once the husk is removed, the fruit spoils more quickly.

Scientific studies have shown that Cape Gooseberry contains polyphenols and carotenoids with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Although it is used as a folk remedy in malaria, asthma, hepatitis, dermatitis, rheumatic diseases, and cancer, these therapeutic effects have not yet been scientifically proven.

It is a perennial, shrub-form plant. It is sensitive to frost. It can survive mild frosts with damage to its leaves and partially to its stem; however, severe frost kills the plant. In our country, it is grown as a perennial in the Mediterranean coastal belt. In cities like Ankara and Istanbul, where severe frosts occur, it is grown as an annual plant, and fruit can still be harvested within the same year.

The plant can grow under full sun or partial shade. Besides well-drained soil, it has no special requirements. In our country, it is sensitive to whiteflies and fungal diseases. Propagation can be done by seed or cuttings. From seedlings planted in the soil in early spring, fruit begins to be harvested starting in August. If commercial greenhouse production is carried out, the plant should be trained upward with strings, as in tomato cultivation.

The production of Yer Kirazı—also known as Cape Gooseberry—has been carried out at the Palm Center for 10 years. In addition to seedlings sold to amateurs, mass production for professional growers began in 2009.