| Tomatillo | |
| Physalis ixocarpa | |
| a.k.a. Husk Tomato |
1-3" fruit resembling a tomato, often found with a green color. Green fruits actually ripen to yellow. There is also a purple ripening variety. Fruits have a marginally tomato-like flavor, but it is unique in its own right.
Description: A small annual with a spreading growth habit. Plants may grow to 2-4ft, but if left unstaked, will spread out radially for a few feet.
Hardiness: In colder climates, flowering and fruiting will continue until temperatures cool or frosts begin.
Sunset Zones: All zones
USDA: All zones
Growing Environment: Optimal growing conditions are similar to that of the tomato, although the tomatillo may grow slightly better in warmer areas than the tomato. Keep plants watered throughout the growing season. Maturity ranges from 80-120 days.
Propagation: By seeds, established plants can be used to root stem cuttings.
Uses: Fruits can be eaten fresh but are usually used to make salsas or used as flavoring.
Native Range: Native to Mexico and Central America. The tomatillo has long been an important crop plant in this part of the world, dating back to the days of the Aztecs and Mayans.