What it is
Tomatillo (Physalis philadelphica) is in the Solanaceae (Nightshade) family. The tart green husk-fruit behind salsa verde. Needs two plants to set fruit, and loves Texas heat.
How to grow it
It wants full sun, water it moderate, and give it average soil. Target a soil pH around 6.0–7.0. Space plants about 24–36 in apart. Expect roughly 75–100. Warm-season annual.
How it's used
Tomatillo is used: salsa, roasted, sauces.
🔎 How to identify it
- Sprawling branching plant
- Papery lantern husk
- Green-to-purple fruit inside
Edibility
PartsFruit (husk removed)
UsesSalsa, roasted, sauces
CautionPlant at least two for pollination.
🌤 Before you plant: check the live 7-day garden weather to time it right for frost and heat.
Part of the free Texas Roots plant database, compiled by Jordan Polasek from his greenhouse in El Campo, Texas. Free to read and share. If it helped, the best thanks is to grow something.