Why we love this flower:
- Uses: Cut flower, uniquely shaped filler
- Garden growth success: Easy
The Love-in-a-Puff, or Balloon Vine, grows a delightfully shaped seed pod after the small white flower blooms, which is loved by kids and adults alike. The delicate beauty of these miniature "paper lantern" pods is a wonderful filler for any bouquet, bringing unique visual interest.
The vine will grow up to 12 feet in a single season, and is considered an invasive species in some states. Pinch off new growth as a way to control spread. The vine should be supported by a trellis or arbor to keep tidy in the garden, and will be happy in full sun to partial shade. Each balloon pod contains seeds with a heart-shaped marking.
Harvest during the coolest part of the day as the cut foliage is prone to wilting in the heat. Place directly into water to rest for a few hours before arranging. Choose stems that have firmed up and are covered in little green lanterns. Stems will last a good week in the vase with flower preservative.
PLANT DETAILS
- Common name: Love-in-a-Puff, Balloon Vine
- Variety: Cardiospermum Halicacabum
- Life cycle: Annual, and perennial in warmer climates
- Structure: Seed
- Attraction: Butterflies, caterpillar
- Resistance: Deer
- Toxicity: None
- Invasive: Cannot ship to AL, AR, SC, TX
CUT FLOWER DETAILS
- Fragrance level: White flowers have mild fragrance
- Cut stem length: 12" to 18"+ inches
- Bouquet role: Filler
- Vase life: 5 to 7 days
GARDEN DETAILS
- Shipping season: Year round
- Planting season: Spring; also in fall zones 8+
- Direct sow: Yes
- Bloom season: Summer through Fall
- Sun requirements: Full sun, partial shade
- Water preference: Moderate water, well-drained soil, tolerates dry soil
- Zones: 5 to 8 (annual), 9 to 11 (perennial)
- Plant height: 9' to 12' vine
