The papery Physalis lanterns are bright spots of colour in the frosty garden.

 

 

Known in English as Chinese Lanterns, Physalis alkekengi is inconspicuous in flower but eye catching as soon as the fruit form in their protective outer cases.  Although they look similar to the related Cape Gooseberries, the fruit inside the ‘lanterns’ are not edible so it’s no loss to leave them to brighten a wintery garden.