Njottanjodiyan (Ground Cherry) Physalis Pruinosa

The ground cherry (Physalis pruinosa), also known as the husk cherry or strawberry tomato, is a small annual plant in the nightshade family Solanaceae. It is native to the Americas, from Canada to Argentina, and is cultivated in many parts of the world for its edible fruit.

The plant grows up to 60 cm tall and has a bushy growth habit. The leaves are oval-shaped, and the flowers are small and yellow. The fruit is round and about the size of a cherry tomato, but it is encased in a papery husk that turns brown when the fruit is ripe. The fruit itself is yellow-orange and has a sweet and tart flavor.

Ground cherries are low in calories and are a good source of vitamin C, beta-carotene, and antioxidants. They can be eaten raw or cooked and are often used in jams, pies, and sauces. The fruit can also be dried and used in trail mix or as a snack.

The plant is relatively easy to grow and can tolerate a wide range of soil types and growing conditions. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Ground cherries are often grown as an annual crop, and the fruit is usually harvested in late summer or early fall.

In addition to its culinary uses, ground cherry has a long history of use in traditional medicine. The plant contains several bioactive compounds, including withanolides, which may have anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, and immunomodulatory properties. However, more research is needed to fully understand the potential health benefits of ground cherry.