Balloon Vine (Cardiospermum halicacabum) is a scrambling, creeping or climbing deciduous plant. It is branched from the base, climbs by means of tendrils and attains about 3 m in length. Light green inflated seed capsules follow the small white flowers. Inside each capsule reside three seeds, each marked with a perfect white heart. The plant is known for its many medicinal uses.
Common Names: balloonvine heartseed, heart pea, heart-pea, heartseed, love in a puff, love-in-a-puff, small balloon creeper, small balloon vine, winter-cherry.
Balloon Vine Medicinal Benefits
- The whole plant is diaphoretic, diuretic, emetic, emmenagogue, laxative, refrigerant, rubefacient, stomachic and sudorific.
- It is used in the treatment of rheumatism, nervous diseases, stiffness of the limbs and snakebite.
- The leaves are used in amenorrhoea.
Growing Balloon Vine
Indoor Sowing: Not Recommended.
Direct Sowing: Spring.
- Grow in fertile, moist but well-drained soil in full sun.
- Start seeds directly outdoors in a prepared site.
- The seeds need to be covered with 1/4 inch of soil and kept moist until germination which takes about 14-21 days..
- Give the plant a structure to climb as it grows quickly.
- Can grow as a perennial in frost free zones.
Disclaimer
Medicinal Information:
All medicinal information on this website is for educational and informational purposes only and may not be construed as medical advice. The information is not intended to replace medical advice or treatment offered by healthcare professionals.
Seeds, Plants, Plant Cuttings, Geophytes and Dried Herbs:
In some countries and provinces, certain plants are deemed as invasive and are not allowed to be planted at all, whilst some plants are allowed to be grown only in certain areas or provinces. The onus is on you as the buyer to familiarize yourself with the regulations pertaining to your location, before purchasing any of our seeds, plants, plant cuttings, geophytes or dried herbs. We will not be held liable, should you purchase any seeds, plants, plant cuttings, geophytes or dried herbs. from us which are prohibited in your country or province.