Walking through my neighborhood the other afternoon, something bright, cheery and very orange grabbed my attention. I had walked past the sight many time before but never noticed these wonderful little gems.
After a bit of looking things I up I discovered that this is a Chinese Lantern Plant, formally known as Physalis alkekengi. It is a ground cover that produces these lovely lantern-like seed pods. Break one open and you will find a round piece of fruit that houses the seeds.
I really wish these were not located on private property as they would be so much fun for crafting and decorating. With All Hallows Eve coming up, plants like these are so much fun to work with. They remind me of the smaller green versions that grow in our Barn Stories author's native garden.
I can just picture little fairies and elves carrying these around as the days grow shorter and shorter. Just a few weeks ago the foliage on these plants was too thick and the lanterns green. But now that fall is in full swing and the sun spending less time in the sky I am able to notice these lovely little plants, glowing in the afternoon sun.
Which gets me to thinking... what can I make that will glow just as bright?
~Jordan
P.S. Come back on Friday to find out what I made!
*Last time in Nature: Leaf Collecting
