Physalis angulata, commonly known as balloon cherry or cutleaf groundcherry, is an erect annual herb native to the new world tropics and subtropics. It thrives in disturbed areas, field margins, and open woodlands. This plant typically grows up to 3 feet tall and features deeply lobed leaves. The pale yellow flowers bloom in the warm months and are followed by yellow-orange fruits encased in a distinctive papery calyx, resembling a Chinese lantern. The fruits are edible and sweet when ripe, making them a unique addition to fruit salads and desserts.

Balloon cherry is valued for its ornamental fruits and is used in garden borders and as an interesting feature in edible landscapes. It requires minimal maintenance, growing well in full sun to part shade, and is tolerant of a wide range of soil types, provided they are well-drained. While the fruits are a culinary delight, caution is advised as the unripe fruit and other parts of the plant are toxic if ingested. In cultivation, it is important to manage its spread, as it can self-seed prolifically and become weedy. Gardeners should be aware of its potential invasiveness, especially in warm climates, and take steps to prevent unwanted spread.CC BY-SA 4.0