About
A vigorous, spreading herbaceous perennial to 60 cm high, with ovate green leaves and small white flowers in summer followed in autumn by large, bright orange lantern-shaped calyces, enclosing red fruits, which persist through winter.
About the genus
Physalis can be annuals or rhizomatous perennials with simple or pinnately lobed leaves and small bell-shaped flowers in the leaf axils, followed by fleshy, sometimes edible, yellow, red or purple berries, enclosed in enlarged, often colourful, calyces
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing, East-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH7
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread1-1.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden
Native toChina, Korea
ToxicityHarmful if eaten, except ripe fruit. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. Pets (dogs): Harmful if eaten, except ripe fruit - For further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants
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 by seed in spring, by division in spring, or by basal cuttings in early summer
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to caterpillar damage
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free