Plants That Look Like Tomatillos: A Guide to Identifying Similar Species

Tomatillos are a staple ingredient in Mexican cuisine, commonly used in dishes like salsa verde and pozole. However, there are several plants that resemble tomatillos and can be mistaken for the real thing. These plants belong to the same family as tomatillos, Solanaceae, and are commonly known as husk tomatoes or Physalis philadelphica.

Husk tomatoes are native to Central America and Mexico, just like tomatillos. They grow in a similar manner, with a papery husk that surrounds the fruit. The fruit itself is small and round, and can range in color from green to yellow to purple. While they may look like tomatillos, husk tomatoes have a sweeter flavor and are often used in jams and desserts. In the United States, they are sometimes sold under the name “ground cherries.”

Growing Tomatillos

Tomatillos are easy to grow and require minimal care. They can be grown in a garden or in containers, making them a great addition to any summer garden. In this section, we will cover the basics of planting, caring for, and harvesting tomatillo plants.

Planting and Germination

Tomatillos are typically grown from seed. They can be started indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost, or sown directly into the garden after the last frost. Tomatillo seeds should be planted ¼ inch deep in well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. They require full sun and temperatures between 70-85°F for optimal germination.

Once the seedlings have emerged, they can be transplanted into the garden. Space the plants 3-4 feet apart in rows, or in raised beds. Provide support for the plants by using cages, stakes, or trellises.

Caring for Tomatillo Plants

Tomatillo plants require regular watering, especially during hot, dry weather. Water deeply once a week, making sure the soil is well-drained. Mulching with organic material such as compost or straw can help retain moisture and keep weeds at bay.

Fertilize the plants with a balanced fertilizer when they are about 6 inches tall, and again when they start to flower. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of fruit production.

Harvesting and Storage

Tomatillos are ready to harvest when the fruit is ripe and the husk has turned brown and papery. The fruit should be firm to the touch and filled out completely. Harvest the tomatillos by gently twisting and pulling them from the plant.

Tomatillos can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks, or frozen in pint-sized containers for longer storage. They can be used in a variety of dishes, including salsas, sauces, and stews.

Common Challenges and Uses

Pests and Diseases

Like many plants, tomatillo plants are susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases. Common problems include flea beetles, aphids, potato beetles, and hornworms. To combat these pests, gardeners may use row covers or other protective measures.

In addition to pests, tomatillo plants may also fall victim to diseases such as mosaic virus. To prevent the spread of disease, gardeners should practice good hygiene and remove any infected plants.

Culinary Applications

Tomatillos are a versatile ingredient in many Mexican and Latin American dishes. They are a key component in salsa verde, a tangy sauce made with tomatillos, garlic, and chili peppers. Tomatillos can also be used in other sauces, soups, and stews.

Tomatillos are typically harvested when the fruit is still green and enclosed in its papery husk. The husk should be removed before use. Some varieties of tomatillos may have purple or red fruit, but these are less common.

Tomatillos are related to eggplant, tomatoes, and other members of the nightshade family. They can be grown in tomato cages and are self-pollinating, making them a relatively easy plant to grow.

In addition to traditional tomatillos, there are other related plants such as husk tomatoes, also known as Mexican husk tomatoes or wild tomatillos. These plants produce small, sweet fruit enclosed in a papery husk. Varieties include purple coban and pairs well with other ingredients in salads or as a garnish.

Another related plant is the Mexican ground cherry, also known as cape gooseberry or physalis peruviana. This plant produces small golden berries, similar in flavor to a cossack pineapple. The fruit is enclosed in a papery husk and can be used in jams, pies, and other desserts.

Overall, tomatillos and their related plants offer a unique flavor and versatility in the kitchen, while also being relatively easy to grow in a variety of conditions, including drought.