Traditional Chinese paper lanterns adorn the streets of all major Chinese cities during big festivals like the Chinese New Year and the National Day, adding a vibrant tinge to the joyful atmosphere of the holiday season. 

Did you know there is a plant called Chinese lantern? The Chinese lantern plant, also known as winter cherry, has a red papery covering over its fruit which looks like a Chinese lantern. This plant is native to southern Europe across southern Asia to Japan.

All parts of this plant are listed as poisonous, although the ripe fruit is used in Ayurveda, traditional Indian medicine.

Here are some beautiful pictures of these glowing crimson pods.  

(All images are from VCG)

About 'Plants & Nations' 

"Plants & Nations" is a series of articles and pictures about common plants in the world. It serves as a guide to beautiful plants from different countries. 

For more articles, pleas click here:

Jacaranda: Australia's prettiest blooms

The favorite flowers of the Renaissance in Italy

The myth of France's national flower: Lily or iris?

The chrysanthemum culture in Japan: beautiful, auspicious and royal

What does the rose mean for the Americans?

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