Balloon-cherry
Physalis angulata
Last reviewed: July 2026
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
12"–36" H × 6"–18" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct
Native to
AL, AR, AZ, CA and 12 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Balloon-cherry is an annual wildflower that produces small white flowers followed by distinctive papery lantern-like husks containing small fruits. This native plant grows 1-3 feet tall with a bushy habit and blooms from summer through fall.
In an HOA neighborhood
Balloon-cherry takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Has weedy appearance and informal growth habit
- Annual nature means seasonal gaps in coverage
- May self-seed aggressively and appear volunteer
Wildlife value
The flowers attract bees and beetles for pollination. The seeds provide food for birds and small mammals.
Common questions
- How much sun does Balloon-cherry need?
- Balloon-cherry grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Balloon-cherry bloom?
- Balloon-cherry blooms in June, July, August, September, and October.
- Where is Balloon-cherry native?
- Balloon-cherry (Physalis angulata) is native to AL, AR, AZ, CA and 12 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Balloon-cherry attract?
- Balloon-cherry draws bees and beetles.
- Is Balloon-cherry HOA-friendly?
- Balloon-cherry takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Balloon-cherry? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz