Physalis alkekengi var. franchetii
Chinese lantern
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
Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
1–1.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | Green | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green | White | Green | |
| Autumn | Green | Green | Orange | |
| Winter | Green | Orange |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H7Botanical details
- Family
- Solanaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Bushy
- Potentially harmful
- Harmful 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
- 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
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- China, Korea
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in any well-drained soil in sun or partial shade. Has the potential to become a nuisance if not managed well
Propagation
Propagate by seed in spring, by division in spring, or by basal cuttings in early summer
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Cottage and informal garden
- Banks and slopes
- Cut flowers
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
No pruning required
Pests
May be susceptible to caterpillar damage
Diseases
Generally disease-free
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