Chinese Lantern
The Chinese Lantern, 'Physalis alkekengi (franchetii)', has bright orange, lantern-shaped, papery seed cases that will glow in your garden in the late summer. The Chinese Lantern is very popular because of its brilliant color, unique shape, and easy to grow capabilities. This plant is also called the Winter Cherry. The flowers are small, white and star shaped, with calyces that enlarge and change from green to red-orange in the fall. The Chinese Lantern grow well in full sun to light shade and in moist, well drained soils. This plant can be invasive, so plant where it can be controlled or in large containers. Plant in the spring, 1 to 2 weeks before the last frost or in the summer up to 2 months before the first fall frost. The Chinese Lantern is a striking addition to fall/winter decorations, as well as late summer color for borders, beds and containers. ... additional information
Zinnia - Canary Bird The Canary Bird Zinnia, 'Zinnia elegans', produces large 4 to 5 inch brilliant yellow flowers on 3 foot tall plants. The Zinnia plant is very easy to grow. For long hot summers, nothing beats zinnias for brilliant bloom color and long bloom period. The Canary Bird Zinnia is an annual plant that produces the best flowers in full sun. Zinnia elegans prefer rich, deep and well drained soil. For best results mix a high phosphorus, low nitrogen fertilizer in with the soil. Plant in late spring, about two week after average last frost. Canary Bird Zinnias are great for cut and dried flowers and are also excellent in large pots and containers.
