Genotypic effect on fruit production, quality, antioxidants and element composition of organically-grown Physalis angulata L. and Physalis pubescens L.

Research was carried out in northern Europe (Russia) with the purpose to assess yield, quality, biologically active compounds and element composition in 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 caused by the smallest berries (3 g). Zolotaya rossip fruits attained the highest values of dry matter and soluble solids, Violet and Korolek the highest polyphenol and ascorbic acid concentration 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.