Hawaiian Poha Berry (Physalis peruviana)
Golden Berries with Sweet-Tart Tropical Flavor and Island Charm
The Hawaiian Poha Berry (Physalis peruviana), also known as Cape Gooseberry or Goldenberry, is a beloved tropical fruiting plant with bright golden-orange berries wrapped in papery husks like tiny lanterns. Though native to the highlands of South America, it has naturalized in Hawaii and become a cherished backyard crop across the islands—valued for its sweet-tart, pineapple-meets-tomato flavor and easy, prolific growth. Poha berries are packed with antioxidants and vitamin C, and their unique balance of tangy and tropical sweetness makes them a favorite for snacking, baking, and jam-making. Compact, fast-growing, and fruiting within the first season, this plant brings a touch of Hawaiian sunshine to any garden.
Cultural & Culinary Significance
Poha berries hold a special place in Hawaiian home gardens and farmer’s markets, where they’re used to make poha jam, chutneys, sauces, and desserts. Their distinct flavor shines in pies, muffins, and fruit salads—or simply enjoyed fresh, peeled from their lantern-like husks. In South America, where the plant originates, it’s known as uchuva or aguaymanto and has been cultivated for centuries as a nutrient-rich superfruit. Easy to grow and endlessly rewarding, Poha Berry bridges cultures and continents—uniting the Andes and the islands through one golden, glowing fruit.
Why Grow Hawaiian Poha Berry?
- Produces clusters of golden-orange berries with a sweet-tart tropical flavor
- Fruits within the first year—high-yielding and easy to grow
- Rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and natural pectin
- Great for jams, desserts, salads, and snacking fresh from the husk
- Compact and ornamental with charming papery fruit husks
Growing Tips
Plant in full sun with well-drained soil, and water regularly during active growth. Poha Berry grows best in warm climates and performs beautifully in Florida and other subtropical zones. It can be grown in large containers or garden beds, where it will fruit continuously through the warm season. Prune lightly to shape and encourage branching. Hardy in USDA Zones 9–11; treat as an annual in cooler regions or overwinter indoors. Fruiting typically begins within 6–9 months from planting.
Quick Facts
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Botanical Name | Physalis peruviana |
| Common Names | Poha Berry, Cape Gooseberry, Goldenberry, Peruvian Ground Cherry |
| Family | Solanaceae |
| Origin | Andes Mountains, South America; naturalized in Hawaii |
| Plant Type | Fruiting tropical perennial (grown as annual in cooler zones) |
| Life Cycle | Perennial in warm climates |
| Mature Size | 3–6 ft tall x 3–4 ft wide |
| Light | Full sun |
| Water Needs | Moderate; prefers consistent moisture with good drainage |
| Soil | Well-drained, sandy to loamy soil |
| Bloom Time | Spring–Fall |
| Flower Color | Yellow with dark centers |
| USDA Zones | 9–11 |
| Florida Native | No |
| Propagation | Seeds, cuttings |
| Seasonal Traits | Evergreen in tropics; annual in cool zones |
| Time to Harvest | 6–9 months from planting; ongoing fruiting thereafter |
Wondering about your USDA Growing Zone and what you can grow? 🌎🌿 Learn how to find your Zone and grow tropical plants anywhere—Florida to Alaska! 👉 Read the full blog here!
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