Also known as Californian Cypress · Grand Balloon Vine · Heart Pea
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Balloonvine (Cardiospermum grandiflorum) is a vigorous, woody climber native to South America, known for its inflated, papery seed capsules.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun to Partial Shade
75% intensity
Prefers at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Regularly
50% intensity
Allow top 2-3 cm of soil to dry between waterings.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Warm
75% intensity
Prefers temperatures between 18-24°C. Protect from frost.
Outdoor
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Feed monthly during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 3/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 3/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
All parts of the plant are toxic if ingested.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water regularly, allowing the top 2-3 cm of soil to dry out between waterings. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot. Reduce watering during winter dormancy.
Ensure good drainage to prevent waterlogged conditions. Consistent moisture is key for healthy growth and flowering.
Prune to control size and shape, and to encourage bushier growth. Remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches. Pruning in late winter or early spring before new growth begins is ideal.
This also helps maintain an attractive form and prevents the vine from becoming too unruly.
Easily propagated from seeds sown indoors in late winter or early spring. Stratify seeds by refrigerating them for a few weeks prior to sowing.
Alternatively, take stem cuttings in late spring or early summer and root them in moist potting mix.
Young plants may need repotting annually, while mature specimens can be repotted every 2-3 years. Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one. Repot in spring before new growth begins.
Use a well-draining potting mix to ensure optimal root health.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Balloonvine (Cardiospermum grandiflorum)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Sapindaceae |
| Genus | Cardiospermum |
| Species | Cardiospermum grandiflorum |
Similar in genus Cardiospermum
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
