OSC Seeds Chinese Lantern Pkg.

Approximately 100 seeds/pkt (600 seeds/gram)

The old scientific name for this plant was Physalis franchetti. It is now officially Physalis alkekengi. We continue to list Chinese Lantern under both names for convenience. Bushy 60 cm plants are filled with orange lantern-shaped pods which are as attractive in the garden as they are in dried bouquets. Pods form during August and September. Very unusual but attractive plant! Hardy to Zone 3 with protection. Thrives unprotected to Zone 4. When growing under ideal conditions, gardeners may find P. alkekengi more rampant than desired. Keep an eye on its tendency to spread; remove rhizomes encroaching unintended parts of the garden.

Start seed indoors in a soil-less mix anytime before the start of March. Germinate at 20° C for approximately 20-25 days. Do not cover seeds as light is beneficial for germination. Grow on under lights at a slightly cooler temperature before hardening off and transplanting to the garden 60 cm apart in rich, slightly acidic soil for best blooms. Spreads quickly by underground stems, so it can become somewhat weedy if not controlled.