Chinese lanterns (Alkekengi officinarum, syn. Physalis alkekengi) are appreciated for their bright orange seed pods or calyces that resemble fanciful paper lanterns.
Suited to cultivation in USDA Hardiness Zones 3 to 9, these non-native perennials thrive in organically-rich soil and full sun to part shade.
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And while the rich color makes them striking late-season specimens, under ideal conditions, self-sowing and rhizomatous root networks may result in invasive growth.
Please note that all parts of this plant are toxic, with one exception. Each pod contains a fruit. When the fruit is FULLY ripe, it is considered edible. At all other times, it is toxic, so beware.
Our guide to growing Chinese lanterns has all you need to know to grow these plants.
This article discusses five remediation methods for unwanted Chinese lanterns and five preventative measures to curb potentially invasive growth and enjoy them in moderation.
Here’s what we’ll cover:
Let’s begin.
Remediation Measures
It’s upsetting when a species we like takes over the garden, and we find ourselves doing battle instead of enjoying it. Here are some ways to tackle out-of-control Chinese lanterns:
Dig It Up
Use a long-handled shovel to uproot and dispose of unwanted plants. Resist the temptation to pull them up by hand, because if you don’t get all of the roots, the foliage will soon reappear as if you did nothing.
You can dig plants up at any time. If you can identify them by their alternating medium green leaves, great. Otherwise, wait until you see a familiar flower or pod, so you don’t accidentally unearth
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