Wild sweet Physalis: promising underutilized minor crops

Abstract Global food security challenges are driving renewed interest in neglected and underutilized crops with high nutritional and agronomic potential. The genus Physalis includes more than 95 species, yet only Physalis peruviana is commercially exploited despite the presence of at least 15 wild sweet Physalis (WSP) species traditionally consumed across the American continent. These species represent a rich but underexplored reservoir of morphological, nutritional, and biochemical diversity. Here, we synthesize current knowledge on WSP taxonomy, distribution, fruit morphology, and phytochemical composition to assess their potential as emerging fruit crops. Several species, including P. pubescens , P. pruinosa , P. chenopodiifolia , and P. grisea , exhibit favorable traits—large, sweet berries, high antioxidant capacity, and environmental resilience—supporting their suitability for cultivation and market development. However, significant gaps remain for many taxa, underscoring the need for targeted agronomic, nutritional, and breeding research. We advocate that WSPs offer promising opportunities to diversify food systems, enhance nutrition, and strengthen climate-resilient horticulture.