Fothergill's Chinese Lanterns Seeds

Details:

• Botanical Name: Physalis alkekengi, a highly unique, structurally captivating member of the nightshade family.
• Plant Class: Hardy Perennial, creating a permanent, spreading root system that returns reliably year after year.
• Foliage & Flowers: Bears small, unassuming creamy-white blossoms in mid-summer, which quickly give way to the iconic, expanding papery husks.
• Spectacular Autumn Transition: The fresh green lanterns undergo a dramatic transformation as the seasons turn, shifting to an intense, glowing orange-red by early autumn.
• Exquisite Cut Flower: Highly sought after for home styling; the stems hold their colour beautifully when fresh, and dry to perfection for stunning, long-lasting winter interior displays.
• Growth Habit & Size: Displays a medium, upright, and well-branched habit, reaching a mature height of 60cm (24in).
• Optimal Position: Achieves its most vibrant, fiery pod colouration when positioned in a bright spot that receives full sun.

Care Instructions:

• Sowing Position: Sow seeds in trays of good compost or directly into well-drained soil in full sun. This plant can spread via underground runners, so growing it in containers or dedicated borders is a great way to control its habit.
• Watering: Keep the soil evenly moist during the germination period and early establishment to build a strong root network.
• Harvesting for Drying: Cut the decorative stems in late autumn when the lanterns have turned fully vibrant. Remove the green leaves and hang the stems upside down in a warm, dark, well-ventilated room to dry.