About
Physalis alkekengi, the Chinese lantern, is a vigorous, rhizomatous herbaceous perennial to 60 cm with ovate leaves. Nodding, creamy-yellow, bell-shaped flowers 2 cm wide appear in summer, followed by the plant's most ornamental feature: inflated, lantern-like, deep-orange calyces 5 cm long enclosing red berries. These dry papery husks are excellent for cutting and arranging. A rewarding and distinctive plant for a sunny, well-drained border.
About the genus
Physalis, the ground cherries and Chinese lanterns, are annuals or rhizomatous perennials with simple leaves and small, bell-shaped flowers, followed by fleshy berries � edible in some species � enclosed in enlarged, often colourful, inflated calyces. Popular in borders and for dried-flower arrangements.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing, East-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH7
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, City and courtyard gardens, Coastal
Native toEurope, Asia
ToxicityHarmful if eaten, except ripe fruit. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. 12873,physaria-alpina,Physaria alpina,alpine twinpod,Physaria alpina
Care notes
CultivationGrow in any well-drained soil in sun or partial shade. Has the potential to become a nuisance if not managed well
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate in containers in a cold frame in spring; propagate by division in spring
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to caterpillar damage
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free