About
Physalis franchetii is a species in the nightshade family (Solanaceae) notable for the papery calyx that partly or fully encloses its fruit. As a Physalis, it belongs to a group of herbaceous plants whose fruits are often edible. Flowering occurs from July to October, and the lantern-like husks are the plant's most obvious feature through late summer and autumn. The genus includes species cultivated worldwide and native to the Americas and Australasia.
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 franchetii sits within the Physalis genus and the Solanaceae (nightshade) family; the group is native to the Americas and Australasia and includes many species endemic to Mexico. A defining characteristic across the genus is a large, papery calyx that surrounds the developing fruit, and many Physalis species produce fruits that are eaten or used commercially. Typical physalis fruit have a firm, tomato-like texture and a sweet, tangy flavour akin to a grape. Plants in this genus are herbaceous and, depending on the species, range approximately 0.4–3.0 m tall, with stems generally more upright and rigid than a tomato. Expect flowering from July to October; the calyx develops as the flowers fade and becomes the season’s focal point. Allow room for upright stems and the eventual fruits; supports similar to those used for other upright Solanaceae can help maintain air circulation around the foliage and husks. Where space allows, Physalis franchetii functions well as a late-summer to autumn feature for its lantern-like calyces and potential edible fruit. Because several Physalis species are cultivated and have been introduced worldwide, growers in the UK often keep them where the papery husks can be admired or harvested — check the calyces from July to October to decide whether to pick the fruit or leave the husks for decorative use.
More in the Physalis genus
- Physalis alkekengiiChinese Lantern
- Physalis franchetii 'Gigantea'
- Physalis philadelphica 'Violet Tomatillo' (F)
