Contents
Description
Alkekengi, also known as Chinese Lantern, is a beautiful plant that belongs to the Solanaceae family. It is native to Asia and Europe and is widely cultivated around the world for its ornamental value. The plant produces bright orange-red papery lantern-like calyxes that enclose the fruit, which is a small round berry. The calyxes are usually used for decorative purposes, but the plant has also been used for medicinal purposes in traditional Chinese medicine.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Solanales |
| Family | Solanaceae |
| Genus | Physalis |
Appearance
The Alkekengi plant can grow up to 1 meter tall and has a spreading habit. Its leaves are oval-shaped and can grow up to 15 cm long. The plant produces small white flowers that bloom in mid-summer and are followed by the beautiful orange-red papery lantern-like calyxes that enclose the fruit. The fruit itself is small and round, about the size of a cherry tomato. The calyxes can remain on the plant for several months, making it an attractive plant for autumn and winter gardens.
Care Guide
Alkekengi plants are easy to care for and can be grown in most soils. Here are some tips to help you care for your Alkekengi plant:
- Water: Water regularly, especially during hot and dry weather.
- Fertilization: Use a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.
- Soil: Alkekengi plants can tolerate most soils, but prefer well-draining soil.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun, but can also tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Alkekengi plants are hardy in zones 3-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Alkekengi plants are generally disease-resistant and pest-free, but they can be affected by the following:
- Aphids: These sap-sucking insects can cause stunted growth and yellowing of leaves. Use insecticidal soap to control aphids.
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing of leaves and webbing on the plant. Use insecticidal soap to control spider mites.
- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white powdery coating on leaves. Use a fungicide to control powdery mildew.
Habitat
Alkekengi plants are native to Asia and Europe and are widely cultivated around the world. They prefer well-draining soils and can grow in most soil types. The plant can tolerate a range of temperatures and is hardy in zones 3-9.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Alkekengi plant poisonous?
A: No, Alkekengi plant is not poisonous, but the fruit should not be consumed in large quantities.
Q: Can Alkekengi plant be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Alkekengi plant can be grown in containers, but make sure the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: How often should Alkekengi plant be fertilized?
A: Alkekengi plant should be fertilized once a month during the growing season.
Q: How tall can Alkekengi plant grow?
A: Alkekengi plant can grow up to 1 meter tall.
Related Plants
- Physalis alkekengi var. franchetii
- Physalis peruviana
- Physalis philadelphica
References
- “Physalis Alkekengi.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=288672.
- “Alkekengi (Physalis Alkekengi).” Gardenia, www.gardenia.net/plant/Alkekengi-Physalis-alkekengi.
- “Chinese Lantern Plant Care: How To Grow Physalis Alkekengi.” Gardening Know How, 28 Apr. 2020, www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/chinese-lantern-plant/chinese-lantern-plant-care.htm.
