Bladder Cherry, with its distinctive papery, lantern-like calyxes, offers a unique visual appeal. Known for its vibrant autumnal display, this plant captures attention with its bright orange to red husks that encase a small berry. Its intriguing appearance makes it a popular choice for ornamental use, adding a touch of color and whimsy to landscapes.
Understanding Bladder Cherry
Bladder Cherry is commonly recognized by several names, including Chinese Lantern plant, Japanese Lantern, and Winter Cherry. Its scientific name is Physalis alkekengi. This perennial herb is native to regions spanning Southern Europe, South Asia, and Northeast Asia.
The plant typically reaches a height of 1 to 3 feet (40 to 120 cm) with a similar spread, characterized by slender rhizomes and erect, branched stems. Its most notable feature is the inflated, papery calyx, resembling a miniature lantern, which develops after the small white flowers bloom in summer. These calyxes transition from green to a striking orange or brick-red as they mature, often persisting into winter.
Growing Bladder Cherry
Bladder Cherry thrives in locations receiving full sun to partial shade, though it produces more flowers and vibrant calyxes in sunnier spots. When planted in partial shade, the foliage and fruits may not develop as abundantly. It adapts to various soil types but prefers well-drained, loamy, and humus-rich soil, ideally with a neutral pH. Good drainage is important to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to fungal issues.
Consistent moisture is beneficial, especially during dry periods and fruit development. A deep watering once a week during dry spells is often sufficient. This plant is quite hardy, tolerating temperatures as low as -15 to -20 degrees Celsius, making it suitable for USDA Plant Hardiness Zones 3 through 9.
Fertilizing Bladder Cherry should be done sparingly, as it is not a heavy feeder. A balanced, low-nitrogen fertilizer or compost can be applied at half the recommended rate. For pruning, minimal intervention is generally required. Pruning can be performed in early spring to shape the plant, manage its spread, or encourage more calyx production by promoting new growth.
Harvesting and Uses
The distinctive lantern-like calyxes are ready for harvest in late summer to early autumn, from August to October, when they have fully developed their vibrant orange or red color. Stems should be cut when the calyxes are fully colored, and then hung upside down in a warm, dark room to dry.
Inside each papery calyx is a small, globose berry that changes from green to orange or red as it ripens. While the ripe berry of Physalis alkekengi is edible and has a mildly sweet to tart flavor, other parts of the plant, including the leaves, stems, and unripe berries, are considered toxic. These toxic parts contain alkaloids and other compounds that can cause symptoms like stomach pain and vomiting if ingested.
It is crucial to consume only fully ripe berries and to exercise caution, as the calyx itself and all other plant parts are considered toxic. Ingesting toxic parts can cause symptoms like stomach pain and vomiting. Professional medical advice should always be sought before using it for medicinal purposes.
Propagating Bladder Cherry
Bladder Cherry can be propagated effectively through seeds or by dividing its underground rhizomes. For seed propagation, sow seeds indoors in late winter or early spring. Seeds require light for successful sprouting. Once seedlings are established, they are ready for transplanting to their final outdoor location after the danger of frost has passed.
Division of rhizomes is another common and effective method, particularly useful for managing the plant’s aggressive spreading habit. This can be done in spring by digging up a portion of the underground stem (rhizome) and transplanting it to a new location.
Addressing Common Issues
One of Bladder Cherry’s most recognized issues is its aggressive spreading habit, primarily through underground rhizomes and self-seeding. This can lead to the plant taking over garden beds if not managed, so planting it in containers or with root barriers can help contain its spread. Regular division of rhizomes also aids in control.
Bladder Cherry can be susceptible to some common garden pests like spider mites, flea beetles, and caterpillars. Diseases such as powdery mildew can also occur, especially in humid or overcrowded conditions. Good air circulation and appropriate watering practices help minimize the risk of fungal diseases.