More Physalis type plant for ID please

alindsay · #1 (**permalink**) 15-10-2011, 06:45 PM

I can't believe it.........

Having posted the thread below a couple of days ago about physalis (thanks aeshna5) and then the reminder about the once common garden plant, Chinese Lanterns (thanks Dorts),

Allotment Escapee ID please

I was out today and spotted this by a bridleway on what looked like a load of dumped topsoil, which must have been there for a couple of seasons.

My research makes me think Apple of Peru (Nicandra Physalodes), which I am glad I didn't taste on the spot as it is 'VERY POISONOUS'.

.....am I right and what on earth is it doing by a bridleway in S Beds?

Alongside it, besides the usual wild flowers were a Nicotina, Snap Dragons, some kind of Heliopsis/Helianthus type, but also a bushy Fumitory, see photo below

[url=http://www.wildaboutbritain.co.uk/archive/showphoto.php?photo=178528]

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What exciting finds even if not typical of the British countryside. Made my day!

aeshna5 · #2 (**permalink**) 15-10-2011, 06:55 PM

You're right- the first plant is Nicandra physaloides. An attractive + yes poisonous plant that is sometimes grown as an ornamental (I have in the past) that does produce a lot of seed which can last some time in the seed bank. Nice find!

Always fascinating finding some of these aliens!

Dorts · #3 (**permalink**) 15-10-2011, 07:42 PM

It's one I don't come across very often. Nearly always find it having popped up in a garden, or as you have found it, where garden soil and rubbish has been dumped.
As aeshna5 has said, the seed can stay fertile in the soil for many years, appearing when the time is right.
Apple-of-Peru is closely related to Thorn Apple, Henbane etc.and is indeed poisonous.
Dorts.