Chinese lantern, also known as winter cherry, is a very popular plant for dried arrangements, and for good reasons—brilliant color, unique shape, easy to grow, and long-lasting. A striking backdrop to fall/winter decorations, as well as late summer color for borders, beds, and containers. Though perennial in USDA zones 3–9, it is often grown as an annual because it heartily spreads by self-sowing or by underground roots. Caution: Most parts of this plant are toxic if ingested.