The ecophysiology of cape gooseberry (Physalis peruviana L.) - an Andean fruit crop. A review

Abstract

In order to review the literature on the ecophysiology of the cape gooseberry, it was found that this typical Andean plant, in Colombia adapts to a wide altitudinal range of the tropical cold climate, that is, between 1,800 and 2,800 meters above sea level (m a.s.l.), with optimal medium temperatures between 13 and 16°C and base (minimum) temperatures for stem and fruit growth are relatively low, 6.3 and 1.9°C, respectively, however it does not withstand temperatures <0°C. Likewise, the Andean conditions of the tropics such as high solar radiation and day lengths <12 hours, rather short, favor the flower initiation. 1,500-2,000 hours year-1 of direct sunshine are the most favorable for the size, quality and ripening of the fruit. Under field conditions in Bogota, a photosynthesis rate of A = 10.545 μmol CO2 m-2 s-1 and light compensation point Ic = 13.645 μmol photons m-2 s-1 was measured. As a plant with an indeterminate growth habit, a constant supply of water is essential, while high amounts or heavy rains after a dry season cause cracking of the fruits, just as the plant does not tolerate waterlogging for more than 4 days. Cape gooseberry is classified as moderately tolerant to salinity and 30 mMol NaCl curiously promote growth, having mechanisms, such as increased antioxidant activity, to protect against saline conditions.

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