Gomphocarpus physocarpus

42.14849854, -87.79004669

Hairy Balloonplant

Insignificant white flowers are followed by spectacular light greenish-yellow inflated pods surrounding the seeds on this nonhardy perennial from South Africa. At maturity, the pods are blown about by the wind and, after a period of time, begin to disintegrate, releasing the seeds. Plant this perennial (after soils have warmed in early summer) in full sun and average soil, and avoid pesticides to protect the Monarch butterfly larvae that may be feeding on the leaves. The pods are a great conversation topic in the garden and can also be harvested and dried for indoor arrangements. All parts of the plant are poisonous.

Soil:
Moderate
Plant Shape:
Upright
Exposure:
Full Sun
Bloom Time:
July - August
September - October
Bloom Color:
White
Landscape Use:
Bedding or Border
Wildlife Interest:
Attracts Butterflies
Resistant To Deer
Plant Type:
Perennial
Hardiness Zone:
8 - 10