How Quickly Does Chinese Lantern Plant Grow?

If you are looking for a plant that can add some color and texture to your garden, then the Chinese lantern plant is an excellent choice. This plant is known for its bright orange or red lantern-shaped fruits that appear in the fall, making it a popular choice for autumnal decorations. But how quickly does the Chinese lantern plant grow? In this article, we will explore the growth rate of this unique and beautiful plant.

The Basics of Chinese Lantern Plant

Before we dive into the growth rate of the Chinese lantern plant, let’s learn a little bit more about this species. The Chinese lantern plant, also known as Physalis alkekengi, is a member of the nightshade family. It is native to Asia and Europe and has been used for medicinal purposes in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries.

The plant grows up to two feet tall and has green leaves that are oval-shaped with serrated edges. What makes this plant so unique are the papery, lantern-shaped calyxes that enclose the fruit. These calyxes start out green but turn a bright orange or red in the fall, making them an eye-catching addition to any garden.

Growth Rate of Chinese Lantern Plant

Now, let’s get to the question at hand: how quickly does the Chinese lantern plant grow? The growth rate of this plant can vary depending on several factors, including soil quality, sunlight exposure, and water availability.

On average, the Chinese lantern plant grows at a moderate pace of about six to eight inches per year. This means that it can take up to three years for the plant to reach its full height of two feet. However, with optimal growing conditions, such as full sun exposure and well-draining soil, the growth rate can be accelerated.

In terms of fruit production, the Chinese lantern plant typically starts producing fruit in its second or third year of growth. The fruit takes about 70 to 80 days to mature and ripen, so if you want to use the plant for fall decorations, it’s best to plant it in the spring or early summer.

How to Care for Chinese Lantern Plant

To ensure that your Chinese lantern plant grows at a healthy pace, there are a few care tips to keep in mind. Here are some of the most important things to keep in mind:

• Sunlight: The Chinese lantern plant thrives in full sun exposure, so make sure to plant it in an area that gets at least six hours of sunlight per day.
• Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. If your soil is heavy or clay-like, consider adding compost or sand to improve drainage.
• Water: While the Chinese lantern plant can tolerate some drought, it prefers consistent moisture. Water deeply once a week, especially during hot and dry weather.
• Fertilizer: Use a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) to promote healthy growth.

FAQ

Can I grow Chinese lantern plant indoors?

While it is possible to grow Chinese lantern plant indoors, it is not recommended. The plant requires full sun exposure and may not thrive in indoor settings.

Do I need to prune my Chinese lantern plant?

Pruning is not necessary for the Chinese lantern plant, but you can remove any dead or diseased branches as needed.

Is the Chinese lantern plant invasive?

While the Chinese lantern plant can self-seed and spread if left unchecked, it is not considered invasive in most areas.

Can I eat the fruit of the Chinese lantern plant?

While the fruit of the Chinese lantern plant is edible, it is not commonly consumed due to its bitter taste. Additionally, some parts of the plant are toxic and should not be consumed.

In conclusion, the Chinese lantern plant is a unique and beautiful addition to any garden. While its growth rate may not be the fastest, with proper care and optimal growing conditions, it can reach its full height and produce its signature bright orange or red lantern-shaped fruits.