Genotypic effect on fruit production and quality, antioxidant content and elemental composition of organically grown Physalis angulata L. and Physalis pubescens L.

Research was carried out in northern Europe (Russia) with the purpose of assessing the yield, quality, biologically active compounds and elemental composition of Physalis angulata and Physalis pubescens fruits. P. angulata cultivars ‘Konditer’ and ‘Konditer 2’ gave the highest yield and mean fruit weight (11.2 t ha⁻¹ and 75 g, on average), whereas P. pubescens variety Zolotaya Rossip had the worst outcome as it produced the smallest berries (3 g). ‘Zolotaya Rossip’ fruits attained the highest values of dry matter and soluble solids, while ‘Violet’ and ‘Korolek’ the highest polyphenol and ascorbic acid concentrations, respectively. Organic acid composition of Physalis fruits revealed high varietal differences and predominant accumulation of tartaric and malic acids. Positive correlations were recorded between dry matter and polyphenols, as well as between Fe and Mn, but an adverse correlation between Si and Cd content. Physalis fruits showed to be a good source of beneficial compounds for human beings, such as polyphenols and ascorbic acid, as well as mineral nutrients, i.e. K, Mg, P, B, Co, Cu, Fe, Li, Mn, Si, V and Zn.