Love in a Cage , Physalis alkekengi var. franchetii 'Gigantea' , also known as physalis , is an annual plant in the Solanaceae family, prized for its berries enclosed in lantern-shaped calyxes . Native to tropical regions of South America , this plant adds an exotic touch to gardens and floral arrangements.

The berries of the lovebird are enclosed in vesicular calyxes that resemble paper lanterns. These calyxes change color as the fruits ripen, from green to yellow , then to orange or bright red . This distinctive feature adds a decorative dimension to the plant, making it a star in bouquets and flower arrangements.

In addition to their visual appeal, loveberry berries are edible and can be used in a variety of culinary preparations, including jams , chutneys , desserts , and salad toppings . Their sweet and slightly tart flavor adds an exotic and delicious note to many dishes.

Easy to grow, lovebirds thrive in well-drained , sunny soils. This hardy plant is often grown as an annual in temperate climates , but it can also be grown as a perennial in warmer regions. With its decorative fruits and culinary versatility, lovebirds are a charming addition to any garden or floral arrangement.

The caged love plant grows to 50 cm tall and spreads about 1 m wide.

Be careful of its creeping roots , reserve a dedicated location for it. In autumn, these very decorative calyxes are harvested to make dried bouquets .

Successfully sowing Love in a Cage

Sowing : in March/April in a pot .

Transplant into a warm bed 1 month after sowing.

Planting Love in a Cage in the Garden

Place in the second half of May , in warm exposure, 50 cm in all directions.
Pinch the stem 15 days after planting.
Stake and remove suckers . Water thoroughly in summer.

Harvest of Caged Love

Harvest from the beginning of September until the first frosts.