This World of Weeds article features groundcherry species (Physalis species). We’re noticing these weeds more frequently in pastures, hay fields, and rights of way. There are several groundcherry species with very similar characteristics. You’re most likely to encounter longleaf groundcherry (P. longifolia) in western KS or smooth groundcherry (P. longifolia var subglabrata) in eastern KS. Other perennial groundcherry species that occur in Kansas include clammy groundcherry, hispid groundcherry, prairie groundcherry, and Virginia groundcherry. Groundcherry species are in the Solanaceae family, like tomatoes, peppers, and potatoes, and in the same genus as tomatillos, a common ingredient in Mexican dishes. The genus name Physalis refers to the balloon-like husk (calyx) around the fruits.
Ecology
Longleaf and smooth groundcherry are native perennial plants that can reproduce from seed or spread by rhizomes. They prefer sunny locations and moist, well-drained soils.
Identification
Groundcherry identification is challenging due to subtle variability within and between the species.
Longleaf and smooth groundcherry are typically 15 to 30 inches tall, but can grow up to 3.5 feet. Stems are angular (not quite square), light green or purplish-green, and are usually smooth but may have a few short hairs, especially on younger plants (Figure 1). Older stems may become woody. Numerous branches give smooth ground cherry a bushy appearance. Some of the lower branches may grow along the ground.
Figure 1. Smooth groundcherry growth habit. Note the angular stem and alternate leaves with wavy margins. Photo by Sarah Lancaster, K-State Research and Extension.
Leaves are about 1 to 6 inches long and 0.25 to 3 inches wide. They are alternately arranged along the length of the stems by petioles 0.25 to 0.75 inches long. As the names imply, longleaf groundcherry has elliptic to lance-shaped leaves with entire margins, while smooth groundcherry leaves are oval to egg-shaped with wavy margins (Figure 1). Leaves have rounded bases, usually with one-half of the base lower than the other. Both the upper and lower leaf surfaces are hairless, except for short hairs along the underside of major veins.
Single, bell-shaped flowers hang from pedicles about 0.75 to 1 inch long below the leaf and the axils in the upper portion of the plant. Yellow flowers about ¾" across have 5 lobes with a slight point at the tip of each lobe and purplish-brown patches at the center (Figure 2).
Figure 2. Smooth groundcherry flower. Note the purple star in the center. Photo by Sarah Lancaster, K-State Research and Extension.
Smooth ground cherry is an indeterminate plant with flowers and fruits occurring on a single plant at the same time. Fruits are spherical, about 0.5 inch in diameter, and surrounded by a papery, ridged husk (Figure 3). Mature berries are smooth and yellow and contain many seeds in a fleshy interior. Pale yellow seeds are flattened, kidney-shaped, and about less than 1/16-inch wide.
Figure 3. Smooth groundcherry fruit. Note the ridges. Photo by Sarah Lancaster, K-State Research and Extension.
Management
Because of the rhizomes, tillage should be repeated to avoid reestablishment, especially in moist environments where disturbed plants are likely to root.
There is little current research regarding chemical control of perennial groundcherry species. Historical recommendations suggest that herbicides that contain the active ingredients glyphosate (RoundUp, others) or 2,4-D will provide good control. Our observations suggest that glufosinate-containing herbicides (Liberty Ultra, others) will kill top-growth. No products include perennial groundcherry species on the label; however, several list cutleaf groundcherry, and annual species, and may be useful to manage perennial groundcherry species. These herbicides include: atrazine (Aatrex, others), carfentrazone (Aim, others), sulfentrazone (Spartan, others), fomesafen (Reflex, others), and saflufenacil (Sharpen, others).
For more information, see the “2025 Chemical Weed Control for Field Crops, Pastures, and Noncropland” guide available online at https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/pubs/SRP1190.pdf or check with your local K-State Research and Extension office for a paper copy.
The use of trade names is for clarity to readers and does not imply endorsement of a particular product, nor does exclusion imply non-approval. Always consult the herbicide label for the most current use requirements.
Sarah Lancaster, Extension Weed Management Specialist
slancaster@ksu.edu
Patrick Geier, Weed Scientist, Garden City
pgeier@ksu.edu
Tags: weeds World of Weeds ground cherry