Chinese Lantern Physalis Alkekengi is a herbaceous perennial that belongs to the Solanaceae family. Chinese Lantern seeds can be started indoors in early spring, and also called Strawberry Ground Cherry this unique plant blooms with white flowers that produce green seed pods which turn brilliant orange-red in the early fall. The shape of the papery seed pods resembles the shape of a miniature Chinese lantern. Physalis Alkekengi delivers an absolutely unique presentation of orange-red color to a fall garden.
Chinese Lantern can be somewhat invasive, because it spreads by rhizomes, so it is recommended to confine its growth to prevent the plant from being too aggressive. Physalis Alkekengi is very easy to grow from seeds, and this perennial flower grows best in full sun or partial shade preferring moist, but well drained soil. Chinese Lantern can be used as a cut flower in floral arrangement, or it can be dried and used in various decorations. Strawberry Ground Cherry can be grown indoors as a houseplant during the fall and winter months.
PLANT PROFILE
Season: Perennial
Height: 24 Inches
Bloom Season: Summer/Fall
Environment: Sun/Partial Shade
Soil Type: Average, Moist well-drained, pH 6.2-7.4
USDA Zones: 4-8
PLANTING INSTRUCTIONS
Sow Indoors: Spring (6-8 weeks before last frost)
Sow Outdoors: Spring
Seed Depth: 1/16 Inch
Germination Time: 21-28 Days
