About
This vigorous herbaceous perennial to 60cm tall, with ovate, variegated green-yellow leaves. Nodding, creamy-yellow bell-shaped flowers 2cm wide appear in summer, followed by inflated, lantern-like deep orange calyces 5cm long, enclosing red berries.
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 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
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 in containers in a cold frame in spring; propagate by division in spring
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to caterpillar damage
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free