Cape Gooseberry (Physalis peruviana L.) is a plant native to the Andean region and belongs to the family Solanaceae. Cape Gooseberries have branches with heart-shaped leaves and lovely bell-shaped flowers. The fruit it produces is covered by a husk, starting green then turn into a glossy yellowish-orange when ripe. The berry can often be slightly sticky to the touch.

Please note that unripened green fruit, as well as leaves, are poisonous to humans, cats, and dogs.

Cape Gooseberries are especially rich in immune-supporting vitamin C, B-complex vitamins, and provitamin A. They are also a great source of potassium and contain minerals calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, and micronutrients zinc and iron. The golden-orange color of Cape Gooseberries is given by carotenoids β-carotene and β-cryptoxanthin, which serve as potent antioxidants and a valuable source of provitamin A.

Notably, members of the Physalis genus contain withanolides, a group of steroidal lactones that are being studied for anticancer and antitumor activity.

The typical Physalis fruit texture is similar to a firm tomato and has a mild, refreshing acidity. The flavor of the Cape Gooseberry (P. peruviana) is a unique tomato/pineapple-like blend. Its uses are similar to the common tomato, or fruits with a refreshing taste.