| Chinese Lantern | |
| Physalis alkekengi | |
| a.k.a. Physalis franchetii, Winter Cherry, Bladder Cherry, Strawberry Cherry |
The Chinese Lantern is a beautiful and recognizable garden ornamental that also bears an edible fruit! Most known for its bright orange "lanterns" which decorate the plant in season.
Description: A short perennial usually growing to no more that 2ft. Both leaves and fruits are decorative. It is a vigorous plant and can spread if left unchecked.
Hardiness: Hardy to 20F and lower in its dormant state. Can grow as an annual and will reseed itself in most climates.
Growing Environment: Can be successfully grown in full sun or part shade. Generally likes moist soil so watering is necessary in drier climates.
Propagation: By seed.
Uses: Almost always grown as an ornamental for its brightly colored, orange husks (lanterns) which cover the fruit. The lanterns are sometimes used in floral decorations, usually with leaves removed. The fruits are edible and suprisingly, are higher in vitamin C than lemons. Care should be taken though, as all other parts of the plant are poisonous. The plant also has a long history of medicinal uses.
Native Range: Central Asia through China. Has naturalized in some parts of the United States and many other countries.