Tomatillo

(Physalis ixocarpa)

Solanaceae family

Tomatillos are closely related to tomatoes, though of a different genus. They are native to Mexico, where they are still grown extensively, particularly for salsas. The plant is an annual, which can grow quite large and has a somewhat vining character. The papery husk (they are also known as 'husk tomatoes') is discarded prior to preparing the fruits for eating. They are now widely available commercially in the US, as Mexican and Southwestern cuisine has steadily grown in popularity.

return to vegetable images

return to AgHrt 100 home