Chinese Lanterns are a type of ground cherry also known as Strawberry ground cherry, that is named for the fact that they look like Chinese paper lanterns!

Such an unusual and beautiful plant. The lanterns start out green, turn yellow then orange and then a vibrant red-orange. The plant has various stages of coloring at any one time which makes it very visually appealing.

After the blooms start the fade, what is left is a very interesting husk that’s almost skeleton like that contains a single edible fruit. The fruit is perfectly safe to eat (and deliciously sweet!), but do not eat any other parts of the plant.

I highly recommend cold stratifying the seeds in your refrigerator for 30 days, prior to planting. Just fold the seeds into a moist paper towel, then a sealed ziploc bag and put them in your fridge, then sow as normal.

This is for approx 25+ seeds

Plants can be started from seed and then spread by underground rhizomes.they reach heights of 2 feet tall. Germination temperatures should be between 70-75 degrees so they should be started in late spring or summer in cooler climates and pretty much any time of year in very warm climates. I had no issues with sprouting at 90 degrees here in Florida, in zone 10. Germination is said to be a challenge but I had no problems at all. Seeds sprout in 2-4 weeks.

In parts of New England, this plant is considered invasive and growing in pots is recommended. They are not difficult to simple pull up though.

Perennial, Growing zones 3-10

I combine shipping on all seed orders, you pay one flat fee for as many seeds as you would like for no additional shipping. Orders over $35 for any combination of items in my shop ship for free!

All of my seeds are tested and guaranteed. Most of my seeds are fresh off of my own plants.