Tomatillo 20 Seeds Physalis philadelphica

The tomatillo (Physalis philadelphica), also known as the Mexican husk tomato, is a plant of the tomato family bearing spherical and green or green-purple fruit of the same name. Tomatillos originated in Mexico and were cultivated in the pre-Columbian era. A staple of Mexican cuisine, they are eaten raw or cooked in a variety of dishes, particularly salsa verde. Tomatillos were domesticated in Mexico before the coming of Europeans, and played an important part in the culture of the Maya and the Aztecs, more important than the tomato. The specific name philadelphica dates from the 18th century. The Tomatillo produces round, 2-3 inches in diameter fruits that change their color from green to yellow-green. Tomatillo fruits can be eaten freshly, and they are excellent for making a wonderful salsa. Tomatillo is grown like tomatoes. The fruits are surrounded by a papery husk that turns from green to brown as they ripen and splits open when they are ready to harvest.