Physalis alkekengi var. franchetii 'Gigantea' | Chinese lantern

This plant will not be available in 2026, however, propagation is planned/underway. Please sign up for the waitlist below to receive updates on availability in future years.

Chinese Lantern or Winter Cherry is an edible ornamental that thrives in almost any condition. Plants are rather weedy looking until their fruits appear in autumn so its best to hide them behind or between more attractive plants. They are well worth planting for the ornamental value that they bring to the fall and winter garden. They also look terrific in cut flower arrangements.

'Gigantea' bears exceptionally large, red fruits.

Zones: 3 to 9
Family: Solanaceae
Type: Herbaceous Perennial
Height: 24 to 36 in.
Spread: 24 to 36 in.
Exposure: Full Sun
Soil Condition: Average
Bloom Time: June to July
Native Range: Asia - Caucasus to China