Physalis Plant Growing & Care Guide for Gardeners

Article by Dean Ravenscroft, Ph.D. - Updated 26th Nov 2023

In this Gardener's HQ guide, we'll explore cultivating Physalis plants in your garden, indoor spaces, and other settings.

Cape Gooseberry, Chinese Lanterns: Cultivation & Garden Use

Physalis plants are mainly grown in the garden for their attractive lantern shaped seeds.

These can be dried out, and used as part of floral arrangements.

Physalis alkekengi by candiru.

Physalis plants are hardy perennials. They range in height from 30 cm to 1.2 m (1 to 4 feet).

They bloom in the summer and early autumn.

Some of the common names for Physalis include Chinese Lanterns, Winter cherry, Husk tomato, and Cape Gooseberry.

Commonly Grown Physalis Species

Physalis peruviana

Physalis peruviana (Cape gooseberry / Goldenberry / Aguaymanto / Harankash / Ground Cherry), photograph by Harry Rose; CC.

Physalis alkekengi

Physalis alkekengi (Chinese Lanterns), picture by Leonora (Ellie) Enking; CC.

Physalis angulata

Physalis angulata (Angular Winter Cherry / Balloon Cherry), picture by Dinesh Valke; CC.

How to Grow Physalis Plants

The seeds of Physalis can be sown outdoors on the soil surface in spring or summer.

It is best to grow them in an ordinary soil. This should have good drainage. Locate in an area of the garden that is sunny or partially shaded.

You can start off Chinese lanterns by sowing the seeds indoors first, do this at the start of spring.

It should take about two to four weeks to germinate at 21 to 25 degrees centigrade (70 to 77°F) in the light.

Once growing transplant seedlings into the garden aat bout 30 cm (12 inches) apart (small Physalis species) to 60 to 90 cm (2 to 3 feet; larger varieties).

Caring for Cape Gooseberry, Chinese Lanterns, and other Physalis plants

Once growing, it is best to regularly water Chinese Lanterns, Cape Gooseberry, and other Physalis plants. The stems should be cut back to ground level in the autumn.

If you require more plants, then propagate by division in the first month of spring.

Common Questions

How many members does the Physalis genus contain?

The Physalis genus contains about 75 to 90 species of flowering plants.

Do Physalis members make a good garden or landscaping plant?

Yes, Physalis species, known as Ground cherries or Chinese lanterns, are grown for their unique, lantern-shaped fruit covers and edible fruits. Some species are also used in borders and as specimen plants for their attractive flowers.

Which Physalis species are most frequently grown by gardeners?

Physalis peruviana (Cape gooseberry) and Physalis alkekengi (Chinese lantern) are frequently grown for their ornamental and edible features.

Are Physalis plants fragrant?

No, Physalis plants are not known for fragrance.

What is the perfect location to grow Physalis?

Physalis prefers a sunny location with well-drained soil. Most species are drought-tolerant once established.

Is Physalis invasive in the USA, if so in which states?

Some Physalis species can be invasive, such as Physalis longifolia in many Midwestern states.

How do I remove Physalis plants from my garden?

To remove Physalis, dig up the entire plant, making sure to remove all the roots as the plant can regrow from them.

Summary

The Physalis genus, part of the Solanaceae family, includes annual and perennial plants. Known for their papery, lantern-like husks enclosing small, usually edible fruits, these plants are fascinating to observe in a garden setting.

Physalis plants need full sun and well-drained soil for optimal growth. Planting is usually done in the spring, after the last frost. Whether used in beds, borders, or containers, these plants add a touch of whimsy to any garden.

I hope that you enjoyed this guide on how to grow Physalis plants. You may also enjoy the following Gardener's HQ growing guides: How to grow Tomatoes, Cupflower, and Nicandra plants.