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Balloon Plant
Balloon Plant
Seed Packet

Balloon Plant

Gomphocarpus physocarpus
Balloon plants inflated ball-shaped seedpods look like unworldly orbs, glowing seemingly from within as the afternoon's slanted sun shines through. A member of the milkweeds, the sprays of mauve florets spilling downward are often spangled with Monarchs.
SKU #S2005
$4.00
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Details
Approximate Seeds Per Packet
37
Lifecycle
Annual; tender perennial
Perennial Hardiness Zone
9,
10
Mature Size
4-6' h x 2-3' w
Sun
Full sun
Soil
Regular, well-drained
Season
Summer to fall
Color
White flowers with pale pink centers in clusters
Features
Great for containers
Great Cut Flower
Deer Resistant
Heat or Drought Tolerant
Attracts Butterflies
SOWING INSTRUCTIONS
Depth:
Barely cover 1/16"
Sprout Time:
7-21 days
Seed To Bloom:
12 weeks
Starting Indoors:
Sow in pots 6-8 weeks before setting out after frost. Surface sow and cover with a light sprinkling of vermiculite. Keep at 65-70°F.
Starting Outdoors:
Direct sow in longer season areas zones 9-10.
WHEN TO SET OUTSIDE
1-2 weeks after the last frost when the soil has warmed.
PLACEMENT & CULTIVATION
Native to S. Africa, the balloon plant or balloon milkweed's main attraction is the inflated lime green seedpods that develop from the pendulous flowers. Monarchs are attracted to the clustered blooms, and their caterpillars feed upon the foliage. An annual in northern areas, it can be invasive in southern zones, where it is perennial. It is good in large pots in borders and combined with grasses and other tall summer annuals. Caution: Wear gloves when harvesting as the milky sap can cause contact dermatitis.
Final Spacing:
2'
Water Requirements:
Medium Water Use
Watering Details:
Water regularly when establishing, then allow the soil to dry between waterings.
Soil pH:
Acidic
Fertilizer:
If soil is especially poor, mix in an inch or two of compost prior to planting.
Diseases & Pests:
Generally problem free.
When to Cut for Bouquets:
Harvest for seedpods once fully developed.