What: Physalis alkekengi, or Chinese Lanterns
Related to tomatillos and easily grown from seed when sown after the last frost, Chinese Lanterns’ papery seed pod is inflated, and encloses a fruit. When dried, they hold their color, last for years and are a wonderful addition to fall dried flower arrangements. Plants should be mulched to keep the roots cool and cut back to about 2 inches at the end of the growing season.
Sun or shade: To achieve best color, place in full sun.
Size: Mature height is 23 inches with a spread of nearly 2 feet.
See it: WSU Master Gardener Discovery Garden, WSU NW Washington Research &Education Center, 16650 State Route 536, Mt. Vernon.
Source: Sandra Schumacher, Special to The Herald
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