Physalis ixocarpa 'Tomatillo Purple' – Purple tomatillo for salsas and special dishes

Physalis ixocarpa 'Tomatillo Purple' is a striking purple tomatillo that thrives in both vegetable gardens and greenhouses. The fruits are medium to large and have a unique purple color that changes to a deeper shade as they ripen. The characteristic papery husk protects the fruits and adds a decorative touch to the harvest.

Characteristics of Physalis ixocarpa 'Tomatillo Purple'

• Fruits: Medium to large, purple in color, with a papery covering

• Plant: Unconstrained, robust and productive; suitable for open ground or greenhouse

• Size: Plants can grow quite large, pruning once will give more stable growth

• Harvest period: From early August to early autumn, as soon as the fruits are visible through the shell

The purple color adds a special touch to dishes and harvest presentations, making this tomatillo ideal for culinary enthusiasts looking for variety.

Cultivation and care

Tomatillo Purple is easy to grow and thrives in a variety of conditions:

• Pre-sowing: End of February to end of March indoors at 20–25°C

• Planting distance: 75 x 75 cm for healthy air circulation and sufficient growing space

• Soil: Well-drained, fertile soil; adapts to most garden soils

• Pruning: Prune once for stronger, well-branched plants

• Greenhouse or outdoor cultivation: Suitable for both greenhouse and open ground

Regular watering and possibly light fertilization promote healthy plants and a high yield.

Harvest and culinary uses

The fruits can be harvested from early August, when they are visible through their papery covering. Uses include:

• Fresh salsas and chutneys

• Boiled or roasted dishes

• Decorative presentation in the vegetable garden or as a culinary eye-catcher

The unique purple color and fresh, slightly tart flavor make Tomatillo Purple a special and tasty addition to recipes and harvest presentations.