How to Grow and Care for Bladder Cherry
A guide to responsibly growing the Chinese Lantern plant. Learn to manage its vigorous spread, understand its edibility, and use its unique papery husks.
The bladder cherry, known scientifically as Physalis alkekengi, is a perennial plant recognized by several common names, including Chinese lantern, winter cherry, and Japanese lantern. Native to regions in Asia and Southern Europe, its most identifiable feature is the vibrant, papery calyx that envelops its fruit. This husk starts as green and transforms into a brilliant orange-red as it matures. This creates a lantern-like appearance that makes the plant a popular ornamental choice, especially in autumn.
Bladder Cherry Edibility and Toxicity
It is important to understand the edibility of the bladder cherry, as parts of the plant are toxic. Only the fully ripe berries are safe for consumption. A ripe berry will be a solid, uniform color inside a dried, papery husk. All other parts of the plant, including the leaves, stems, and unripe green berries, contain solanine and are poisonous if ingested. This toxicity is a trait of the Solanaceae, or nightshade family, to which this plant belongs.
For those who wish to try the fruit, the taste of a fully ripened bladder cherry is tart. Its flavor profile is comparable to that of a tomatillo or its close relative, the ground cherry. The texture of the fruit is similar to a firm tomato.
How to Grow Bladder Cherry
The plant is adaptable, growing well in full sun to partial shade. It thrives in well-draining soil and can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy and loamy compositions, with a pH between 6.6 and 7.3. This perennial is hardy, tolerating frost and temperatures down to -15°F (-26°C), which corresponds to USDA hardiness zone 5.
Planting can be done using seeds or nursery transplants. To start from seed, sow them indoors about six to eight weeks before the last expected frost date. The seeds require light to germinate, so they should be placed on top of the soil and only barely covered. Maintain a soil temperature between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit for best results. The seedlings can be transplanted outdoors after the danger of frost has passed, spacing them about half a growth width apart to allow for their spread.
Alternatively, you can sow seeds directly into the garden once the soil has warmed. For transplants, prepare the soil by loosening it and incorporating some compost or manure. Spring is the ideal time for planting outdoors. Ensuring the young plants receive adequate sunlight and consistent moisture will help them establish quickly.
Plant Care and Management
Once established, bladder cherry is a low-maintenance plant. It exhibits good drought tolerance, but for the best growth and fruit production, it prefers consistently moist soil. Regular watering is beneficial during long dry periods, but avoid waterlogged conditions that can lead to root issues.
This plant does not require heavy feeding, as it will grow vigorously in most soils without supplemental fertilizer. If the soil is poor, a single application of an organic, balanced fertilizer in the spring is sufficient. Excessive fertilization can stimulate leaf growth at the expense of flowers and lanterns. Pruning is not necessary for the plant’s health, but you can cut it back in the spring to remove old stems and maintain a tidier appearance.
Controlling Spread and Common Pests
A significant characteristic of the bladder cherry is its aggressive growth habit. The plant spreads via underground stems called rhizomes, which send up new shoots and allow it to colonize a large area. If not managed, this vigorous spreading can outcompete other plants and become a nuisance.
Containment is a primary task when growing this species. One effective method is to plant it within a deep container sunk into the ground to act as a physical root barrier. You can also install a dedicated root barrier around the planting area, buried at least 18 inches deep. Regularly inspecting the surrounding area for new shoots and removing them promptly is also necessary to keep the plant in check.
The bladder cherry is resilient and significant pest infestations are not common. It can sometimes be susceptible to pests that affect its relatives like tomatoes, such as flea beetles, aphids, or caterpillars. Often, any issues with the plant’s appearance are due to cultural problems like poor soil moisture or improper light, rather than insects or diseases.
Harvesting and Using Bladder Cherries
The pods are ready to be collected in late summer or autumn when the calyx has developed its deep orange color and has a dry, papery texture. To harvest, you can snip individual lanterns or cut entire stems laden with the colorful pods. These stems are valued in floral design and are a popular choice for dried flower arrangements and seasonal fall decor.
Beyond their ornamental value, the ripe berries can be used in the kitchen. After removing the papery husk, the tart fruits can be made into jams, sauces, or pies. They can also be used as a unique garnish for desserts or savory dishes.