Chinese Lantern Plant (Physalis alkekengi var. franchetii gigantea) is one of the most distinctive plants you can grow for late-season colour and autumn arrangements. Throughout summer it produces small white flowers, but the real show begins as the seed pods swell and transform into large, glowing orange lanterns that hang from the stems like miniature paper lanterns.

A vigorous perennial, it forms attractive clumps of fresh green foliage before producing an abundance of lantern-covered stems from late summer into autumn. The stems are highly valued by florists, flower farmers, and arrangers for both fresh and dried work, adding structure, texture, and vibrant colour when many other flowers are beginning to fade.

Easy to grow in most garden soils, Chinese Lanterns thrive in a sunny or lightly shaded position and return year after year. The lanterns dry beautifully, retaining their colour for months, making them ideal for wreaths, dried bouquets, and seasonal displays.

A wonderful choice for cut flower growers, cottage gardens, wildlife-friendly borders, and anyone looking to add a touch of autumn magic to their garden.

 
When to Sow: Feb - May

HOW TO SOW: Sow in pots - Sow onto the surface of moist seed compost and lightly cover with a fine layer of vermiculite or compost. Maintain a temperature of 18–31°C. Pot on seedlings individually once large enough to handle and harden off before planting out.
 
Classification: Hardy Perennial 
Germination Time : 3-4 Wks
Site: Full Sun/ Part Shade
Soil Type: Will grow in most soils - Moist but Well Drained
Expert Level:  Easy to Grow
Care: A vigorous spreading perennial. Plant where it has room to naturalise or contain roots if required. Cut stems once the lanterns have coloured and hang to dry for arrangements. Mulch annually with well-rotted organic matter.
Use: Cut Flower, Dried Flower, Autumn Displays
Harvest: Cut stems once the lanterns have turned bright orange and feel papery. Excellent fresh or dried.
 
Days to Maturity: 130 Days
Vase Life: 7-14 Days / Everlasting
Height: 60-90cm
Flowering Time: Jun - Aug
Spacing:45cm