Dried Physalis

Physalis angulata is also known as Chinese lantern or bladder cherry. The most characteristic part of dried physalis are its bell- or cup-shaped flowers, which feel like thin parchment to the touch. This plant is a perfect decorative accent in autumn.

Physalis alkekengi

Groundcherries (Physalis alkekengi), also known as the Chinese lantern or bladder cherry, is a perennial plant native to South America. Due to its lack of resistance to low temperatures, it is cultivated as a perennial plant. Physalis is also known in Europe countries and in Africa. It belongs to the nightshade family, which means that it is related to tomatoes, potatoes and tobacco, among others. Its characteristic feature is its inflated calyxes that conceal spherical fruit. Resembling Chinese lanterns and turning orange in autumn, they are extremely decorative. This makes them a source of inspiration for florists and people who like handmade, natural decorations. They are particularly fantastic in autumn compositions.

What does a physalis look like?

Many people remember physalis from their childhood. It is a plant that used to be very common in gardens years ago. It was also grown in pots on windowsills or balconies. The plant produces angular, stiff stems that grow up to about 60 cm in height and are covered with fine hairs. The shoots are covered with triangular-ovoid leaves arranged alternately. All this makes the bladderwort look rather unimpressive in the garden, even after the flowers have developed – white and quite small, not attracting attention. It is only after flowering that the plant catches the eye. Initially, it develops green pods, which turn bright orange in mid-September. The swollen calyxes, resembling lanterns, conceal a spherical fruit inside.

Physalis in nature and in the garden

In natural conditions, the physalis is found in South America. It can also be found in Asia and Africa. In Poland, it rarely occurs in natural conditions, growing on the edges of forests and mountain slopes. It is much more common in flower beds. And although the physalis has now passed its heyday in gardens, today it is valued primarily in its dried form. Its beautiful, fiery orange lanterns look great in dry bouquets, providing a source of inspiration for florists. To preserve their shape and colour, physalis should be cut before the autumn rains arrive.

Those who want to grow and dry physalis themselves will have no problems doing so. The plant is not demanding to grow. However, it is worth ensuring that it is grown in a sunny spot. This will allow the garlic mustard to develop lots of fruit surrounded by a beautiful capsule. The optimal substrate for it is light and fairly fertile soil. Care should be taken to ensure that it is constantly moist. Otherwise, the leaves of the physalis will start to turn yellow and the flowers and fruit will fall off. It should be remembered that physalis is a highly expansive species. If left uncontrolled, it can overwhelm other plants, so it is a good idea to plant it in a pot.

Use of Physalis

Dried physalis is mainly used in floristry. Stems decorated with orange lanterns look beautiful in bouquets – solo or accompanied by other plants. Physalis is best combined with red or yellow varieties. It is a wonderful companion for thistles, sanfordii and craspedia. It can also be complemented with dyed lagurus or amaranth. Combined with linum or lunaria, it will create a wonderful composition with an autumnal character. Dried physalis is worth combining with grasses – chasmanthium, phalaris, and even stipa – especially when dyed navy blue.

But that's not all, because in addition to shoots, individual physalis branches are also suitable for decoration. They work wonderfully as Christmas tree decorations. They can be added to compositions under glass domes or 3D pictures. They are perfect as an addition to wreaths hung on walls, doors or windows. Physalis fruits can also be used to decorate cakes.

It should be noted that, unlike the physalis peruviana, the alkekengi variety is not suitable for consumption. Although it contains plenty of vitamin C and minerals, it has an unpleasant, tart and bitter taste. Therefore, it is not used for  cooking.

Physalis at Blosmi

Blosmi offers bunches of dried physalis consisting of 10 stems and reaching a height of approx. 50 cm. In this form, they can be placed in a vase or combined with other dried flowers to create creative and original compositions. Our offer also includes individual fruits surrounded by their characteristic pouches. All specimens are carefully packed and secured for transport.