Physalis philadelphica
Origin: US
Improvement status: Evolutionary Population
Seeds per packet: ~35
Germination tested 12/2025: 77%
Life cycle: Annual
From our friend Joseph Lofthouse, barefoot seed steward and evolutionary plant breeder in Paradise, Utah, who produced these seeds, with the help of the Going to Seed community which he also helps steward:
"Tomatillos thrive inside the adaptation-agriculture meme. Their naturally 100% promiscuous pollination invites swift, elegant adaptation to each new gardener, soil, and season. This population descends from plants that chose to grow feral in the gardens where previous fruits fell — volunteers that returned year after year with increasing vigor and self-determination.
"Now in their fourth generation through the Going To Seed landrace seed share, these tomatillos carry a wide, lively genetic mix. Expect diversity in size, flavor, husk texture, and ripening time. Expect volunteers. Expect the pleasure of watching a population learn your place as you learn theirs."
GROWING TIPS: Start a couple weeks before last frost and plant out when soil warms. In future years, allow plants to self-sow, or save seeds from your favorites.
