How to Propagate a Chinese Lantern Plant

Chinese lantern plants (Physalis alkekengi) are closely related to tomatillos and are a member of the nightshade family. While these highly ornamental plants produce edible seeds, they are flavorless and not the main draw of the plant. In fall the husk around each small scarlet seed turns a bright orange-red. The papery, inflated husk resembles a paper Chinese lantern, which makes these dried husks prized in indoor flower arrangements. Chinese lantern plants are annuals, so propagate new plants from seed indoors each spring.

Pot
Potting soil
Plastic wrap
Scissors

Instructions

- 1
  Fill a small seed pot with a well-drained, sterile potting mixture, such as one specifically formulated for seed starting. Water the mixture until it is evenly moist.
- 2
  Plant two seeds per pot. Sow them ¼ inch deep and cover loosely with fine soil.
- 3
  Cover the pot with a layer of plastic wrap, which helps retain soil moisture during germination. Set the pot in an area that receives bright, indirect sunlight.
- 4
  Remove the plastic wrap once seedlings emerge, usually within seven days of planting. Move the pots into direct sunlight and water when the soil surface begins to dry.
- 5
  Thin the plants to one per pot once the seedlings produce their second set of leaves. Cut off the smaller, weaker seedling at soil level, taking care not to disturb the remaining plant.
- 6
  Transplant Chinese lantern seedlings to the garden two weeks after the last spring frost.

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