Physalis – Plant of the week
- Posted By: Phil
Posted in: Plant Of The Week, Plants
21st July 2020
Physalis
Physalis alkekengi is a distant relative of the new world P. peruviana. This species is native to Asia unlike the rest of Physalis that is native to the Americas. It is easily identifiable by the large, bright orange to red papery covering over its fruit, which resembles paper lanterns
Other common names – Chinese lantern
Genus Physalis can be annuals or rhizomatous perennials with simple or pinnately lobed leaves and small bell-shaped flowers in the leaf axils, followed by fleshy, sometimes edible, yellow, red or purple berries, enclosed in enlarged, often colourful, calyces
Details – Physalis is a vigorous herbaceous perennial which can grow to 60cm tall, with ovate leaves and nodding creamy-yellow bell-shaped flowers 2cm wide, followed by inflated, lantern-like deep orange calyces 5cm long enclosing red berries
How to grow
Grow in any well-drained soil in full sun or part shade. Best grown in containers as although suitable for the border it may become invasive
Propagate in containers in a cold frame in spring; propagate by division in spring
Suggested planting locations and garden types Flower borders and beds Cottage & Informal Garden City & Courtyard Gardens Coastal
Pruning – Ideal for flower arranging; cut stems for drying as the calyces begin to colour
Pests – Caterpillars may be a problem
Generally, disease free