Where Do Golden Berries Grow? A Look at the Versatile Golden Berry Plant

Also known as cape gooseberries or Inca berries, golden berries are the small, cheery yellow fruits of the Physalis peruviana plant. With their sweet-tart flavor and texture similar to cherry tomatoes, golden berries have become a popular ingredient around the world. But where exactly can these versatile berries be grown?

Origins in South America

The golden berry plant originated in the Andes mountains of Peru, Chile, Ecuador and Colombia where it grows at high mountain elevations between 1,600 – 9,800 feet. Known by names like uchuva, uvilla, and aguaymanto in South America, golden berries have been cultivated in this region since Inca times

The plant thrives best in cool, subtropical climates with average temperatures between 55-64°F and ample rainfall between 31-169 inches per year. As a perennial plant in tropical zones or an annual in temperate locations the golden berry plant can grow aggressively to form thickets up to 5 feet tall.

Although originating in South America and the Peruvian Andes, the golden berry is cultivated in many other countries including:

• South Africa – It was introduced in the early 1800s and became known as the “Cape gooseberry.”

• England – It was brought to England in 1774.

• Australia and New Zealand – It was introduced in the early 1900s.

• China, India, Malaysia, the Philippines – It has become naturalized in tropical and subtropical Asia.

• Hawaii – It has become an invasive species, forming dense thickets.

The plant has been able to spread around the world into suitable growing zones between 45° south latitude to 60° north latitude. With its tolerance for a wide range of climates, golden berries can be grown successfully in many locations where other nightshade fruits like tomatoes, eggplants and potatoes can grow.

Growing Golden Berries in North America

In North America, golden berries are easy to cultivate in zones 8-11. The plant can withstand summer highs around 86°F but needs protection from frost and freezing winter temperatures.

Ideal regions for growing golden berries include:

• Along the warm coastal areas of California, Texas and the Gulf Coast region.

• Across the southern states from California to Florida and north to Virginia.

• In Hawaii and other tropical zones.

For cooler northern climates, golden berries can be grown in containers that are brought indoors during winter. Growers in zones 5-7 can try planting golden berries along south-facing walls for extra warmth and protection.

Choosing the Best Site

When choosing a site to plant golden berries, keep these factors in mind:

• Full sun to partial shade – Golden berries grow best with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. Light afternoon shade is beneficial in extremely hot climates.

• Well-drained, sandy loam soil – The soil should drain easily to prevent fungal diseases. Amend clay soils with compost.

• Wind protection – Shelter from strong winds helps prevent damage to the delicate plants.

• Space for sprawling vines – Allow at least 3 feet between plants for the vines to spread. Use trellises for better air circulation and to avoid fallen fruit.

Seeding and Transplanting

Golden berries are mostly grown from seed because seedlings are more vigorous. Start seeds 8-10 weeks before the last expected frost. Bury seeds 1/4 inch deep in seed starting mix, keep moist and expect sprouts in 14-21 days.

After sprouting, grow the seedlings on at 65-70°F until transplant time. Harden off plants for 7-10 days before transplanting seedlings outside after all danger of frost. Space plants 3 feet apart in rows 5 feet apart.

For faster harvests, some growers propagate new plants from 8-10 inch cuttings taken from 1-year old wood. Cuttings and transplants may fruit several weeks sooner than seedlings.

Caring for Golden Berry Plants

With proper care, golden berry plants will remain productive for 3-4 years. Here are some tips for getting the most out of your plants:

• Water regularly – Give plants 1-2 inches of water per week until fruit begins to form. Then avoid overwatering.

• Fertilize lightly – Use a balanced organic fertilizer once each month during the growing season.

• Prune yearly – In warmer zones, cut back oldest branches after fruiting to stimulate new growth.

• Cover in winter – In zone 8 and warmer, mulch roots to protect from frost. In cooler zones, dig up roots and store dormant plants over winter indoors.

• Support vines – Trellises or cages prevent fallen fruits and keep vines off the ground for disease prevention.

• Weed and mulch – Control weeds and maintain moisture with 2-3 inches of organic mulch.

Harvesting Ripe Golden Berries

Depending on variety and climate, golden berries are ready for harvest 60-100 days after transplanting. Ripe fruits will turn from greenish-yellow to bright orange or red inside the papery husk.

Pick fruits when they detach easily and the husk is dry and opaque. Store harvested berries in their husks in a cool place for up to 2 months. To eat, simply peel away the husk which is not edible.

Ideal for Backyard Growing

With their tropical look and sweet-tart taste, golden berries are an exotic and versatile fruit for backyard gardens. As an easy-to-grow plant suited to container gardening, the golden berry is definitely worth trying for any gardener looking to expand their edible landscape.