Chinese Lanterns

SKU: FL3448
Chinese Lanterns Physalis seeds grow into compact bushes of dense foliage. Its insignificant white flowers are followed by inedible, tomato-like fruits that form inside distinctive orange and red, papery coverings. Read More

Exposure Full-sun to partial shade

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Chinese Lanterns

Product Details

Physalis alkekengi. Chinese Lanterns Physalis seeds grow into compact bushes of dense foliage. Its insignificant white flowers are followed by inedible, tomato-like fruits that form inside distinctive orange and red, papery coverings. This plant develops an extensive root system and can be prevented from becoming weedy by growing it in large containers. The papery coverings that resemble paper lanterns dry well and look great in fall displays. Left in the elements, they slowly disintegrate, revealing a complex network of cells that resembles lattice work. Physalis is a close relative of the Cape Gooseberry but is not grown as a food crop. This plant grows 40-60cm (15-24") tall.

Perennial

Quick Facts:

    • Perennial
    • Great fall colour
    • Excellent dried flowers

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Chinese Lanterns

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All About Chinese Lanterns

Latin

Latin
Physalis alkekengi
Family: Solanaceae

Difficulty

Difficulty
Germination can be difficult. Once they’re growing the plants are very easy to care for.

Season & Zone

Season & Zone
Exposure: Full sun to partial shade

Timing

Timing
PhysalisΒ performs best when sown indoors in early spring, around the last frost date. Seeds can also be direct sown in spring or summer. Physalis seeds should germinate in 15-30 days. Transplant after last frost.

Starting

Starting
Physalis seeds require light to germinate, so need to be sown on the surface of the soil. Ideal temperature for germination: 21-25Β°C (70-75Β°F).

Growing

Growing
Water regularly and cut stems back to ground level in the fall. Divide plants in early spring, or simply gather seed and treat as an annual from year to year.

Note: P. alkekengi is listed as an invasive weed in New England states. It can be grown in large containers – aim for 5 gallons minimum. To avoid possible spreading, simply use a fork and pull up whole plants in the fall, once the seed cases have been harvested.

How to Grow Physalis

Step 1

Timing

PhysalisΒ performs best when sown indoors in early spring, around the last frost date. Seeds can also be direct sown in spring or summer. Physalis seeds should germinate in 15-30 days. Transplant after last frost.

Step 2

Starting

Physalis seeds require light to germinate, so need to be sown on the surface of the soil. Ideal temperature for germination: 21-25Β°C (70-75Β°F).

Step 3

Growing

Water regularly and cut stems back to ground level in the fall. Divide plants in early spring, or simply gather seed and treat as an annual from year to year.

Tips

P. alkekengiis listed as an invasive weed in New England states. It can be grown in large containers – aim for 5 gallons minimum. To avoid possible spreading, simply use a fork and pull up whole plants in the fall, once the seed cases have been harvested.

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