Chinese Lantern (Physalis alkekengi) http://www.durgan.org/URL/?MDKUH 12 September 2009 Chinese Lantern (Physalis alkekengi) A clump is grown in the garden. It is kept contained by digging a trench around the area. It is more decorative than anything, but the fruit is eaten if the berries are extremely ripe. If green, solanine is present, and should be avoided. Craft people use the pretty cups to make various items.