Physalis alkekengi var. franchetii dwarf
dwarf Chinese lantern
A vigorous, spreading, rhizomatous perennial to 30cm tall, with upright stems bearing broadly ovate leaves. Tiny, creamy-white, bell-shaped flowers are produced in summer; these are followed by inflated, papery orange 'lanterns' (calyces), which contain a small berry. The stems can be cut for use in floral arrangements
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Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
Spring | Green | |||
---|---|---|---|---|
Summer | Cream White | Green | ||
Autumn | Green | Orange | ||
Winter |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H6Botanical details
- Family
- Solanaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Clump forming
- Potentially harmful
- Harmful if eaten, except ripe fruit. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. Pets (dogs): Harmful if eaten, except ripe fruit - For further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants
- 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
- Name status
Correct
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in any well-drained soil in sun or partial shade. Has the potential to become a nuisance if not managed well
Propagation
Propagate by sowing seed in containers in a cold frame in spring. Divide in spring
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Cottage and informal garden
- Cut flowers
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
No pruning required
Pests
May be susceptible to caterpillar damage
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Get involved
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