Home/Plants/Physalis

Physalis

Physalis alkekengi

fruit

Physalis, also known as Chinese lantern or ground cherry, is a perennial or annual plant producing small, sweet berries enclosed in decorative papery husks. The edible fruits are prized for their tangy-sweet flavor and are used fresh, in jams, or as garnish. The distinctive lantern-shaped calyces are also valued for ornamental dried arrangements.

Physalis

Common Problems

Select the problem your Physalis is experiencing to get a treatment guide.

Yellow Leaveschevron_right

Slow Growthchevron_right

Wiltingchevron_right

Brown Spotschevron_right

Care Guide

light_mode

Light

Full sun; 6+ hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal fruit production

water_drop

Water

Moderate water; keep soil consistently moist during growing season but allow some drying between waterings

compost

Soil

Well-draining, fertile soil with organic matter; pH 6.0–7.5

science

Fertiliser

Apply balanced fertilizer monthly during growing season; switch to lower nitrogen formula once flowering begins

thermometer

Temperature

Warm-season grower; prefers 65–80°F; frost-sensitive

humidity_percentage

Humidity

Moderate humidity; good air circulation helps prevent disease

Toxicity

dangerousToxic to CatsdangerousToxic to Dogscheck_circleSafe for Children

Berries are edible when ripe; unripe fruits and plant foliage contain toxic alkaloids; keep away from pets

Common Diseases

coronavirusRoot Rotchevron_right coronavirusLeaf Spotchevron_right coronavirusPowdery Mildewchevron_right

Common Pests

pest_controlSpider Miteschevron_right pest_controlAphidschevron_right pest_controlThripschevron_right pest_controlWhiteflychevron_right

Seasonal Care

local_floristspring

Resume regular watering and feeding as growth picks up.

light_modesummer

Peak growing season. Water and feed regularly.

ecoautumn

Reduce watering as growth slows. Stop heavy feeding.

ac_unitwinter

Minimal watering and feeding. Protect from frost if needed.