apple of Peru

noun

1. a plant, Nicandra physalodes, of the nightshade family, having large blue flowers.

Word History and Origins

Origin of apple of Peru¹

An Americanism dating back to 1775–85

Example Sentences

This plant is also called "mad-apple," "apple of Peru," and "Devil's apple."

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The fruits of Physalis are apparently kept dry in a manner similar to the apple of Peru, although when first mature they are soft and juicy, considerably like a ripe tomato.

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