Physalis ixocarpa

Available for purchase from 1 July 2025  

Queen of Malinalco is a rare and elegant heirloom tomatillo variety from the historic town of Malinalco in central Mexico. This landrace treasure is unlike any other, with long, tapering, heart-shaped fruits that ripen to a glowing lemon yellow. Sometimes known as "Chupon de Malinalco", it reflects a centuries-old legacy of indigenous cultivation. The plants are vigorous and sprawling, offering high yields of uniquely shaped fruit wrapped in traditional papery husks.

More than just a visual marvel, Queen of Malinalco is prized for its flavour. Sweeter and more tropical than typical tomatillos, it carries notes of mango and pineapple with a delicate tartness. The fruit can be eaten fresh off the plant, grilled to caramelised perfection, or blended into a bright golden salsa. Its distinct profile makes it a favourite among chefs and growers seeking something truly different.

For germination, start seeds indoors 6 to 8 weeks before your last frost date. Sow at a depth of 3 to 6 mm and maintain soil temperatures between 21 and 29°C. Germination occurs within 7 to 14 days. Using bottom heat would give you a major boost for germination speed and uniformity. Transplant seedlings after the last frost, spacing them 45 to 60 cm apart in fertile, well-drained soil under full sun.

These robust plants can grow up to 1.2 metres tall and benefit from staking or cages to support heavy fruiting. They thrive in compost-rich soil and need regular watering to maintain steady growth. Harvest begins 70 to 85 days from transplanting, when the fruits have filled the husks and begin to split or fall naturally from the plant. Ripe fruits are firm and bright yellow, ready to enjoy fresh or cooked.

Standard packet contains approx. 25 seeds

Petite packet contains approx. 10 seeds