Exposure Full-sun to partial shade
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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
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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
Physalis 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: 21-25°C (70-75°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.
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For over 35 years, we have upheld our strong reputation as a leading seed supplier, seeking out the highest quality untreated seeds for organic growing and putting them through rigorous independent testing. We built our company on the exchange of generational wisdom in a masterclass community of newbies and masters alike. Our world may have changed, but our commitment to our people, our customers, and our planet has not.
We’re a values-based business that has blossomed into a lifestyle ethos, with products that support seeders, feeders, keepers, and the tiniest of creepers. Our mission? To mobilize the next generation of gardeners with products that nourish soil and grow vigorous, sustainable gardens. We believe all plants should be grown without the use of chemicals, and that the seeds we supply are an important component of regenerative gardening.
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Physalis 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.
Physalis seeds require light to germinate, so need to be sown on the surface of the soil. Ideal temperature for germination: 21-25°C (70-75°F).
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.
