Physalis alkekengi var franchetii more commonly known by its culinary name of cape gooseberry produces miniature rich white flowers above oval green foliage in midsummer although this hardy perennial is normally grown for its edible berries which develop within papery red chinese lantern calyces the stems can also be cut in order to create fabulous decorative flower arrangements this dynamic variety creates a stunning autumn display adding much needed colour to fading perennial borders