Physalis virginiana, the Virginia groundcherry,[1] is a rhizomatous perennial with a deeply buried stem base.

The flowers form a five angled bladder like structure that surrounds the plants half inch diameter sized fruit.

Flavor, when fresh off the bush, is almost candy-like, but changes after a short time into something more akin to a cherry tomato.

[3] The Virginia groundcherry is native through much of the United States as well as Manitoba, Ontario, Quebec, and New Brunswick.

Certification standards for soybean production requires that no more than 62/ha black nightshade or groundcherry plants should be found at inspection.

This problem has led to scientific studies on ways to reduce black nightshade and groundcherry populations around soybean farms.

[7] Native Americans traditionally used various Physalis species for eye infections, treating open wounds, and gastrointestinal symptoms.