Overview
Physalis alkekengii is a perennial in the genus Physalis, part of the Solanaceae family. Physalis alkekengii grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates well-drained soils and neutral and slightly acidic pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include ornamental and ground cover. It is native to Southern Europe to South Asia and Northeast Asia.
About the genus
Physalis is a genus of approximately 75 to 90 flowering plants in the nightshade family (Solanaceae), which are native to the Americas and Australasia. At least 46 species are endemic to Mexico. Cultivated and weedy species have been introduced worldwide.
Wikipedia contributors, "Physalis", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Physalis
In the garden
Physalis alkekengii is a perennial native to southern Europe, across South Asia and into northeast Asia, and is cultivated in the UK primarily for ornamental use and as ground cover. It puts on its main display between July and October when it flowers, making it useful for summer-to-autumn interest in mixed beds. Site selection is straightforward if you follow a few key points: choose a sheltered position in full sun or partial shade, and a soil that is well drained yet able to retain moisture, with a neutral to slightly acidic pH. The species is rated H5, which equates to hardy in UK gardens, so it can tolerate typical winter conditions in most areas when given protection from exposure. Use Physalis alkekengii where you want a spreading seasonal element—along borders, under taller perennials or to form a low ground layer. Remember that all parts are toxic if swallowed, so avoid planting where children or grazing animals have easy access and plan planting locations accordingly.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Physalis
- Sunlight
- full sun, partial shade
- Soil type
- well-drained
- Soil pH
- neutral, slightly acidic
- Soil moisture
- moist
- Exposure
- sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H5
Plant details
Physalis alkekengii size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- perennial
- Suggested uses
- ornamental, ground cover
- Native to
- Southern Europe to South Asia and Northeast Asia
- Toxicity
- Toxic if ingested
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Physalis alkekengii
- Cultivation
- Prefers well-drained soil and partial shade to full sun. Can be invasive if not controlled.
- Pruning
- Cut back in early spring to control spread and encourage new growth.
- Propagation
- By seed or division in spring.
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Physalis alkekengii?
Prefers well-drained soil and partial shade to full sun. Can be invasive if not controlled.
Where is the best place to plant Physalis alkekengii?
Physalis alkekengii prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Physalis alkekengii need?
Physalis alkekengii grows best in well-drained soil. It prefers neutral and slightly acidic soil. Aim for soil that stays moist.
How do I prune Physalis alkekengii?
Cut back in early spring to control spread and encourage new growth.
Is Physalis alkekengii hardy in the UK?
Physalis alkekengii has an RHS hardiness rating of H5, meaning it is hardy in most of the UK, tolerating -15 to -10°C.
How do I propagate Physalis alkekengii?
By seed or division in spring.
Is Physalis alkekengii toxic?
Toxic if ingested.
From the Fenn Plants journal
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- Keeping Your NerveHow to garden through a heatwave — the best time to water, why deep soaks beat daily sprinkles, caring for pots and vulnerable plants, and why you can let the lawn go brown.
- Made to LastHow to clean, store and protect garden pots and planters — the frost-proof vs frost-resistant difference, winter care for terracotta and ceramic, and how to reuse a broken pot.
