The Chinese lantern plant (Physalis alkekengi) is a hardy perennial known for its vibrant, paper-thin, bright-orange husks that resemble miniature hanging paper lanterns. It produces tiny, creamy-white summer flowers followed by fiery autumn pods, making it a popular ornamental garden choice and a staple for dried flower arrangements.
Appearance and Growth Cycle The "Lanterns": The defining feature is the papery, lantern-like casing (calyx) that grows up to 5 cm (2 inches) long. It turns from light green to a vivid, fiery orange in autumn, fully enclosing an edible red berry inside. Foliage and Flowers: The plant grows to about 40–60 cm (16–24 inches) tall with diamond or oval-shaped green leaves. Tiny, nodding white or creamy-yellow flowers appear in mid-summer. Winter Interest: If left on the plant into winter, the fleshy outer husk gradually decays into a delicate, lacy skeleton, leaving the bright red berry visible inside.
Habitat and Cultivation -Growth Habit: It spreads vigorously via underground rhizomes (similar to mint) and can become invasive in open garden beds. Many gardeners prefer planting it in containers. -Light and Soil: It thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist, well-drained soil.
-Hardiness: It is extremely cold-hardy and can tolerate winter temperatures down to -23°C (-10°F).
Important Safety Note -The Chinese lantern is a member of the nightshade family. While the red berries inside the husks are edible, the leaves and unripe fruits are poisonous if ingested. Gloves should be worn when handling.
Physalis alkekengi (Chinese lanterns)
Plant Factfile
Height 60-90cm Spread 60-90cm Soil Chalk, loam, sand Flowers July - September/October Position Full Sun Hardiness H1-H7 What you’re buying
Plant images are used for illustrative purposes only, so you know what your plant will look like once fully grown.
You’re purchasing your chosen size of plug plant (by selecting “Plant Size” option above).
Mini Plugs: Each plug is approximately 15mm sq, containing tender young seedlings in need of pricking out and potting on to grow before being planted out.
Midi Plugs: Each plug is approximately 20mm sq, plants are a little more mature than the mini's, can sometimes be planted out if the weather is good and the last frost has passed.
Maxi Plugs: Each plug is approximately 30mm sq, plants are more mature, sometimes over a year old, which can mean well developed root systems and/or fewer leaves due to winter dormancy or cutting back. Generally hardened off and garden ready, though for best results good weather is preferred for planting out.
Full information about plant sizes, including pictures, can be found here.
Delivery & Dispatch
Delivery Costs
- £3 flat rate delivery on all orders under £50
- Free delivery on orders over £50
When Orders Are Posted
Orders are normally posted on the Tuesday following your order. This helps us work efficiently and also reduces unnecessary trips and emissions. In most cases, after Tuesday posting your plants should arrive before the weekend.
Packaging & Plant Care During Transit
Our plugs are gently squeezed and carefully packed into breathable, unsealed plastic bags. The plants are then packed into recycled cardboard packaging wherever possible.