Chinese Lantern

Chinese lantern (Physalis alkekengi) is an upright herbaceous perennial grown for the bright orange, papery calyx that encloses each red berry. Its understated, nodding cream-yellow flowers give way to lantern-like structures that add strong fall color. ## Growing Conditions The species spreads by rhizomes, so a container or a bed with a clear boundary is often the best placement. The [KPU Plant Database](https://plantdatabase.kpu.ca/Plant/phak) describes the plant’s mature size and notes that its rhizomes can be difficult to contain. It grows in full sun to part shade and well-drained soil, and the [Cambridge University Botanic Garden](https://www.botanic.cam.ac.uk/the-garden/plant-list/physalis-alkekengi/) records its distinctive lantern-like fruit. Give it room and remove shoots beyond the intended planting. Do not treat ornamental fruit as food unless a reliable species-specific source confirms it is safe. ## Maintenance Check bed edges during the growing season and remove rhizomes that extend beyond the intended area. Water new plantings while they establish; container-grown plants need regular checks for drying.