Physalis alkekengi
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Physalis alkekengi
Hardy Herbaceous Perennial
- Flowers: Late Summer
- Soil: Well drained
- Zones: 5, 6, 7, 8
- Height: 24 inches
- Germination: Easy
- Aftercare: Easy
- Ideal for: Border, Dried Flower
Description
Huge scarlet lanterns' which are magnificently attractive in the garden and then can be cut and dried to be used all through the winter to decorate your house naturally. Easy, thriving in almost any soil, sun or shade. Lanterns develop late summer.
Sowing Instructions
| Sowing time: | Indoors 10-12 weeks before last frost. |
|---|
Sow seed at 20C (70F) on surface of a good seed sowing mix and gently firm down. Keep mix damp but not wet. Sealing in a plastic bag after sowing is helpful. Do not exclude light which is beneficial to germination, but keep out of direct sunlight until germination occurs. Remove the bag and move into good light at this time. Germination usually takes 21-30 days.
Growing Instructions
When seedlings are large enough to handle, transplant and grow on in cooler conditions. Plant out in a reserve border and move to their final positions in early autumn planting 60cm (24in) apart in ordinary well drained soil and sun.
Aftercare Instructions
To dry, cut the stems when the lanterns start to show color and hang upside down in a light airy shed.