Image: Maximilian Du (cc-by-nc) via iNaturalist
Exposurefull sun
Watermoderate
Typeperennial
Distribution
Physalis alkekengi (P. franchetii)
Chinese lantern
Flower Color
Description
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
Mature Height
1m
Mature Spread
1.5m
Plant Characteristics
Foliage
Deciduous
Growth Habit
Bushy
Growth Speed
Moderate · 0.3 m/yr
Soil Texture
ChalkLoamSand
Soil pH
AcidAlkalineNeutral
Soil Moisture
Moist but well-drained
Hardiness (RHS)
H9
Hardiness (USDA)
Zones 3-10
Flowering Season
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Key Features
Cottage and informal gardenBanks and slopesCut flowersFlower borders and beds