Overview
Physalis alkekengi var. franchetii is a bushy perennial in the genus Alkekengi, part of the Solanaceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 0.3 m tall. Physalis alkekengi var. franchetii grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H6. Suggested uses include borders, ground cover and ornamental. It is native to East Asia.
About
Alkekengi is a monotypic genus of flowering plants in the nightshade family Solanaceae with a single species Alkekengi officinarum. This species is native to the regions covering Southern Europe to South Asia and Northeast Asia.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Alkekengi
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Alkekengi
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Sandy, Loamy, Clay
- Soil pH
- Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing
- Exposure
- Full sun to partial shade
- UK hardiness
- H6
Plant details
Physalis alkekengi var. franchetii size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Perennial
- Habit
- Bushy
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Height
- 0.3 m
- Suggested uses
- Borders, ground cover, ornamental
- Native to
- East Asia
- Toxicity
- Fruits are mildly toxic if ingested unripe
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Physalis alkekengi var. franchetii
- Cultivation
- Prefers moist, well-drained soil; can be invasive if not controlled
- Pruning
- Cut back in late winter or early spring to control spread
- Propagation
- Seed, division, cuttings
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Physalis alkekengi var. franchetii?
Prefers moist, well-drained soil; can be invasive if not controlled.
Where is the best place to plant Physalis alkekengi var. franchetii?
Physalis alkekengi var. franchetii prefers full sun. It suits full sun to partial shade positions.
What soil does Physalis alkekengi var. franchetii need?
Physalis alkekengi var. franchetii is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including sandy, loamy and clay. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
How do I prune Physalis alkekengi var. franchetii?
Cut back in late winter or early spring to control spread.
How big does Physalis alkekengi var. franchetii grow?
Physalis alkekengi var. franchetii reaches a height of 0.3 m.
Is Physalis alkekengi var. franchetii hardy in the UK?
Physalis alkekengi var. franchetii has an RHS hardiness rating of H6, meaning it is very hardy, tolerating -20 to -15°C across most of the UK.
How do I propagate Physalis alkekengi var. franchetii?
Seed, division, cuttings.
Is Physalis alkekengi var. franchetii toxic?
Fruits are mildly toxic if ingested unripe.