Physalis angustifolia Plant Identification (Flower, Leaf, Care, Uses)

Family – Solanaceae

Stems:

Leaves:

Inflorescence:

N/A

Flowers:

Flowering – March – December.

Habitat – Coastal dunes and strands.

Origin – Native to U.S.

Other information – This species can be found in the two coastal Alabama counties. The plant can be identified by its habitat, glabrous stems and leaves, thin leaves, and bluish anthers. Another species, P. walteri Nutt., can also be found in coastal areas but this latter species is stellate pubescent and does not have linear leaves.
The genus name Physalis derives from the Greek “physal(i)” meaning “a bladder, bubble, a wind instrument” referring to the inflated calyx of the fruit.
The species epithet agustifolia derives from the Latin “angust(i)” meaning “narrow” and “foli(a)” meaning “a leaf” referring, obviously, to the narrow leaves.

Alabama Distribution:

Photographs taken at St. George Island State Park, FL., 3-29-05.