Solved Is this a Physalis?

Discussion in 'Identification Area' started by Escarpment, Oct 5, 2024.

  1. Escarpment

    Escarpment Total Gardener

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    This plant popped up in one of my tomato pots and https://identify.plantnet.org/ says Cape Gooseberry. Do you think they're right? The leaves are furry and don't have a noticeable odour. Presume it won't last the winter so isn't worth keeping?

    I've also had masses of strawberry plants appear in my pots. I only grow alpines, but these are the type that throw off runners and have been chucking them out in all directions - very vigorous.

    Can only assume the birds have been feasting on a neighbour's crops and pooping them out in my pots!
    2024-10-05_09-47-48.jpg
     
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    • pete

      pete Growing a bit of this and a bit of that....

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      It does look like one.
      It will survive if you can keep it just frost free.
       
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      • Escarpment

        Escarpment Total Gardener

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        Thanks Pete, I have a cold frame so will stick it in there when it gets colder. Nothing lost if it doesn't survive.
         
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        • Baalmaiden

          Baalmaiden Gardener

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          The other thing it might be is a relative of physalis, shoo fly plant, Nicandra physalodes which does sometimes pop up from nowhere. In which case it is a hardy annual which grows to about 4 to 5 feet and has attractive mauve flowers. Don't eat the fruit, they are poisonous!
           
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