Bladder cherry (Alkekengi officinarum)
Care, watering, light and tips for Bladder cherry on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Solanaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Full sun
- Temperature: 10–35 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Bladder cherry
Alkekengi officinarum, commonly known as Winter Cherry or Chinese Lantern, is a perennial herbaceous plant famous for its striking orange calyces that enclose berries. These structures, resembling small paper lanterns, make it ideal for adding a vibrant splash of color to autumn and winter gardens, or as part of dried floral arrangements.
Native range
Europe and temperate Asia
Care tips
This plant prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil, though it is quite tolerant of different soil types. Watering should be regular during the growing season to keep the soil slightly moist, reducing it in winter. A common mistake is not controlling its spread, as it can become invasive; consider planting it in containers or with barriers to limit its expansion.
How to save a dying Bladder cherry
- Warning signs
- Yellowing or wilting leaves, berries not forming or dropping, slow growth.
- First aid
- Check soil moisture, water thoroughly if dry. If waterlogged, aerate roots. Move to partial shade from intense sun.
- What kills it
- Overwatering rotting roots or complete lack of water. Also strong direct sun without acclimatization.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if roots aren't fully rotten or main stem isn't dry. Act quickly.