Physalis Flowers
Name : Physalis Flowers
Latin Name : Genus: Physalis, (Physalis alkekengii)
Physalis Description
Physalis is a genus of plants in the Nightshade Family, Solanaceae, native to warm temperate and subtropical regions throughout the world, growing wild in Europe, America and Asia.
Common names for the Physalis flower include Cape Gooseberry, Physalis, Alkekengi, Chinese Lantern Plant, Ground Cherry, Husk Tomato, Jamberry, Mexican Husk Tomato, Miltomate, Strawberry Tomato, Tomatillo and Winter Cherry.
Physalis are a group of both annual and perennial plants, characterised by the small orange fruit which is similar in size, shape and structure to a small tomato, but partly or fully enclosed in a large papery husk derived from the calyx. The Physalis species are related to the common tomato but have a stiffer, more upright habit. Physalis varieties are grown for their fruits and also for ornamentation, and grow to a height ranging between 0.4–3 m.
The ornamental varieties earn their common name due to the fact that their fruit is enclosed in a delicate, papery husk, resembling tiny Chinese Lanterns. Most Physalis varieties prefer full sun and fairly warm to hot temperatures. Physalis grows in most soil types provided they are well-drained; they do very well in poor soils and can also be planted in pots. These plants need plenty of water throughout the year, except towards fruit-ripening time. Physalis won't do well in a shady place or in heavy, poorly drained soil; light soil is best for their development.
Physalis or Chinese Lanterns can be propagated by seeds in early fall or spring or by division of clumps. Chinese Lantern Plants spread quickly if the soil suits them. Prevent overcrowding since this results in a lack of flowers and fruits.
The Chinese Lantern Plant and its varieties are excellent garden plants that look extremely pretty in the garden in late summer. Stems bearing the large orange "fruits" are used in cut flower arrangements. The Chinese Lantern Plants are long lasting berries and look quite handsome in a vase. They have a vase life of about a week or more. The Chinese Lantern berries can also be dried and used in dried arrangements, where the fruits retain their colour all Winter.
The edible varieties include P. pruinosa, P. peruviana and P. ixocarpa are grown for their edible fruits; whereas the ornamental varieties include P. alkekengii; P. franchettii; P. bunyardii; P. monstrosa and P. nana. P. francheti has large, deep red pods, while P. alkekengi is a hardy, ornamental variety, popular for its large, bright orange to red husks. Physalis alkekengii and its varieties are grown for the ornamental value of their brilliantly coloured, swollen calyces.
Physalis Meaning
This exquisite Physalis flower symbolizes the meanings Anticipation and Expectancy.
Physalis Mythology
The genus name Physalis is derived from the Greek word "physal(i)" meaning " bladder, bubble, a wind instrument"; referring to the inflated calyx of the fruit.
Physalis fruit has many culinary uses as well and may be eaten raw or used in salads, desserts, as a flavoring, and also in jams and jellies. These berries may also be dried and eaten like raisins or other dried fruit.
In Chinese medicine, the Physalis is used as a cure for abscesses, cough, fever and sore throat. P. subglabrata or Smooth groundcherry is considered to be a hallucinogenic plant by some and is considered a drug in some countries.
