Winter cherry plant , also known as Physalis alkekengi , are a unequalled efflorescence bush that is pop among gardeners . The shrub is native to Europe and Asia , and produces lantern - like yield that make it a tolerate - out in the garden .
The winter cherry tree flora is not only attractive to face at , but it also supply a great source of food for thought for birds and other wildlife . The yield has a sweet taste and can be used in jams , jellies , and sauces .
The winter cherry plant is a perennial , imply it will number back year after year . It grows to a pinnacle of one to two fundament and it produces pocket-size yellow flowers that turn into orange or red fruit that look like paper lanterns . The lantern can measure up to two inches in width and contain several small seeds in the center .
What is a winter cherry plant?
Growing wintertime cherry is an easy and rewarding task for gardener of any skill level . wintertime cherries are an evergreen shrub capable of produce a hoi polloi of white flower and bright red berry during the winter month . With the correct knowledge and forethought , gardeners can successfully school a healthy winter cerise flora .
Winter cerise , also known as Japanese lantern plant or Chinese lantern plant life , are a recurrent industrial plant native to Europe and Asia . They require full sun , medium water , and should be space 2 feet apart . They typically grow to a height of 2 ft , blooming in July . Winter cherry tree can be implant in container and are not toxic to bozo or hound , however they are not drought broad . They can survive in hardiness zone 3 - 9 .
Be advised , this flora is moot incursive in some places , particularly warm , damp climates , and is toxic to both cats and dogs .
Are winter cherries edible?
The fruits of the winter cerise are edible to both humans and various wildlife , but all other function of the plant life , include leaves , stems , and roots , are said to be toxic . The yield of the wintertime cherry red is said to be very high in vitamin C , stop even more of the vitamin than some pop citrus fruits .
Growing winter cherries in containers
get Physalis alkekengi in containers is a swell way to relish this unique and ornamental flora . Physalis alkekengi , usually known as Chinese Lanterns , is a perennial herbaceous industrial plant with brilliant orange - red , lantern - corresponding fruit . It is aboriginal to Asia and Europe , where it has been cultivated for centuries .
When growing Physalis alkekengi in containers , make certain to select a sens that is at least 12 inch rich and 12 inch wide . Use an all - purpose potting mix and fill up it with a mix of adequate parts peat moss , perlite , and guts . Water the grunge until it is evenly dampish and then send the industrial plant in the center of the locoweed .
leave your Physalis alkekengi with vivid , indirect sunlight and keep the soil systematically moist . Fertilize the plant life every month during the growing time of year with a balanced liquid fertiliser and prune the plant as need to maintain its shape .
Physalis alkekengi is relatively pest - innocent and disease - resistive , but keep an eye out for aphids , whitefly , and powdery mold . If you notice any of these pests , use an insecticide or fungicide to treat the problem .
With right attention , Physalis alkekengi can be maturate in containers for years . It is a great add-on to any garden and will add unique grain and color .
Wildlife attracted by winter cherries
The lustrous carmine fruit of winter cherry are pop among wildlife like birds . The bright cherry-red color of the fruit makes it a desirable nutrient source , and the seeds inside provide an extra dietetical incentive .
Some mammalian are also make to the fruits of Physalis alkekengi . Squirrels , chipmunks , and even foxes have all been observed eating the fruits of this plant . The vivid cherry color of the yield and the sweet sense of taste make it a favorite snack for these brute .
Reptiles , such as lizard and snakes , are also sleep together to use up the fruits of Physalis alkekengi . The bright red color of the fruit aid to attract these animals , and the honeyed appreciation hold it an appealing nutrient source .
Overall , wildlife of all form are pull in to the fruits of Physalis alkekengi . From birds to mammals to reptiles , this species of blossoming plant life provides a worthful food for thought source for a motley of animals .
