Purple Tomatillo - Seed

Purple Tomatillo.

The Tomatillo or Mexican tomato is an edible Physalis species. The translation of Physalis is bladder. And that's how the Tomatillo grows, in a bladder or lantern. When the Tomatillo is fully grown, it bursts out of its lantern. A particularly graceful plant, but it grows very luxuriantly. It is a feast for the eyes to follow this special tomato as it grows from lantern to fruit.

Minimum 3

For pollination, plant at least 3. Place the seedlings (that you have pre-sown) together in a group and later add a few long (bamboo) sticks to support them. The Tomatillo can reach a height of 2 meters, so give them space. You can possibly cut away the excess tendrils. This Tomatillo is not suitable for a greenhouse. The greenhouse prevents pollination, so few fruits will grow.

A slightly sour note

The tomatoes can be used unripe (still green), this is not unhealthy. In Mexican cuisine, the raw fruits are finely chopped and used to make salsa or in sauces, soups and curries. When the fruits are ripe they can be eaten fresh.

Enjoy and be amazed by this special plant.