Physalis alkekengi var. franchetii 'Gigantea'

Physalis alkekengi var. franchetii 'Gigantea' is a hardy perennial grown for its large, papery orange-red lanterns in autumn. Small creamy-white flowers appear in summer, and each one develops into a berry enclosed in an inflated case that turns from green to bright orange as it ripens. 'Gigantea' has larger lanterns than the standard form. The stems can be cut and dried for arrangements, and if left on the plant the lanterns slowly fade to a fine skeleton of veins over winter.

Few plants give such strong colour in autumn, just as the rest of the garden is fading. The lanterns are excellent for drying and last for months indoors. It spreads readily, so it's best given a spot where it can fill out, or grown in a large pot.