Physalis halicacabum

Names and Synonyms

Scientific Names

Accepted name

Synonyms

• Physalis divaricata
• Physalis alvarisii
• Physalis indica
• Physalis joe-diasii
• Physalis kansuensis
• Physalis minima var. indica
• Nicandra indica
• Physalis indica var. microcarpa
• Physalis alkekengi var. orientalis

Taxonomical Classification

This plant belongs to the kingdom Plantae within the phylum Streptophyta and the class Equisetopsida. It is further classified under the subclass Magnoliidae, the order Solanales, and the family Solanaceae. Finally, it is categorized under the genus Physalis.

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Distribution

This plant exhibits a widespread geographical distribution across several key regions of Asia. In Western Asia, its presence is noted within the country of Afghanistan. Its range extends into China, specifically throughout the North-Central territories. Within the Indian Subcontinent, it can be found in the state of Assam and across the East Himalaya region. Finally, the species is also commonly distributed throughout India.

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Botanical Identification

Ecology

The ecology of Physalis haliacabum is characterized by its adaptation to diverse montane and sub-montane landscapes, where it thrives within a specific altitudinal gradient. This species is predominantly found at elevations ranging from a minimum of 400 m AMSL to a maximum of 1200 m AMSL. Within this vertical range, the plant occupies various microhabitats, often favoring disturbed soils, forest edges, or open meadows where sunlight availability is sufficient to support its growth cycle. The environmental conditions within this 800-meter elevational span dictate its distribution, as the plant must navigate varying temperature regimes and moisture levels typical of these middle-altitude zones.

Elevational range max:

1200 m AMSL

Elevational range min:

400 m AMSL

Morphology

The morphology of Physalis haliacabum is characterized by its growth form as a herb, exhibiting a non-woody structure throughout its vegetative organs. It functions as a self-supporting climber, utilizing its herbaceous stems to ascend or spread without the requirement of external structural support.

Climber :

self-supporting

Growth form :

herb

Woodiness :

non-woody

Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)

Chemicals

Physalis halicacabum has 1 reported phytochemicals identified across 0 scientific publications and several other databases. The most consistently reported chemicals include ergosta-5,24(28)-dien-3beta,25-diol.

ergosta-5,24(28)-dien-3beta,25-diol

1. Planta medica