[1][2] It is found mainly in habitats such as dry or mesic prairies, gravel hills and rises, sandy or rocky soils, and waste places such as roadsides.

Physalis heterophylla is a perennial, and is one of the taller-growing North American members of the genus, reaching a height up to 50 cm.

The fruits are typical for the family (appearing like a tomatillo), and have a slightly bitter taste, though they are perfectly edible when ripe.

[3] Outside of the mature fruit, which is edible, all parts of P. heterophylla contain toxic amounts of solanine, which is poisonous to humans and animals.

Symptoms of solanine poisoning include headache, stomach pain, lowered temperature, dilated pupils, vomiting, diarrhea, circulatory and respiratory depression, and loss of sensation.