Physalis alkekengi

Physalis alkekengi, also known as the Chinese lantern plant, is a species of flowering plant in the nightshade family Solanaceae. It is native to Eurasia and has been widely cultivated and naturalized in other parts of the world.

Description

Physalis alkekengi is a herbaceous perennial plant growing to 40–60 cm tall, with spirally arranged leaves. The flowers are white, with a five-lobed corolla. The fruit is a small berry, enclosed in a large, inflated and papery calyx, which becomes bright orange as the fruit matures.

Cultivation and uses

Physalis alkekengi is often grown as an ornamental plant for its brightly colored, unique lantern-like fruits. In addition to its ornamental value, the plant has been used in traditional medicine. The plant's fruit is edible, but is not commonly consumed due to its bland taste.

Traditional medicine

In traditional Chinese medicine, Physalis alkekengi is known as deng long guo. It is believed to have diuretic, antipyretic, and expectorant properties. However, these claims have not been scientifically validated.

Ecology

Physalis alkekengi is a host plant for the caterpillars of some Lepidoptera species, including the angle shades moth.

See also

• Physalis peruviana
• Physalis philadelphica
• Physalis pruinosa

References

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