Physalis alkekengi
Chinese Lantern
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Chinese Lantern (Physalis alkekengi) - Description
Largely grown for its vividly colored, orange-red, lantern-shaped fruits which cut and dried are widely used for dried bouquets. Spreads rampantly. All parts of this plant, except for the fruit when it is ripe, can cause stomach and skin irritation.
Chinese Lantern (Physalis alkekengi) - Blooming
Blooms in the summer but is not known for its flowers. The Chinese Lantern Plant has a decorative calyx that looks like a little "lantern".
Chinese Lantern (Physalis alkekengi) - Growth
Upright, bushy, occasionally rhizomatous, annuals and perennials. Does best in full sun or light shade. Can reach 3 ft. tall and just as wide. Spreads with underground runners and can become invasive. Best grown in a border. If you wish to dry the stems, cut them as the calyces start to color.
Chinese Lantern (Physalis alkekengi) - Planting
Sow seeds in spring. For perennials, sow seeds in containers in a cold frame. Seeds of annuals should be sown directly into the ground. Conduct division in spring.
Chinese Lantern (Physalis alkekengi) - Pest
Caterpillars. Also prone to white smut, rust, and leaf spot.
Chinese Lantern (Physalis alkekengi) - Interesting facts
Physalis is native to the Americas. All parts of P. alkekengi cause stomach discomfort except for the ripe fruit. The foliage may also aggravate the skin upon contact.
Chinese Lantern (Physalis alkekengi) - Soil and irrigation
Needs regular water. Does best with light soil.
