This long-loved vine has acquired many names, including Love in a Puff, heart seed, and balloon vine, all very accurate descriptions of this delightful variety. Buoyant light green inflated seed capsules follow the small white flowers. Inside each capsule reside three seeds, each marked with a perfect white heart. Vining stems that climb to 10-12' hold delicate spring green cut leaves.
Sowing: February - April Season: Annual Height: 120 inches (3 m) Bloom Season: Midsummer to mid-fall Bloom Color: Green to red Environment: Full sun Soil Type: Moist, but well-drained soils, pH 6.1 - 7.8 Germ temperature: 18 - 21C (65 - 70F) Average Germ Time: 14 - 21 days Light Required: Yes Depth: Plant seed 1/4 inch (0.5cm) deep Moisture: Keep seeds moist until germination Plant Spacing: 6 inches (15 cm)
Start Balloon Vine seeds directly outdoors in a prepared site. Cardiospermum seeds need to be covered with 1/4 inch (0.5 cm)of soil and kept moist until germination. Give the Balloon Vine plant a structure to climb as it grows quickly. Cardiospermum vine can grow as a perennial in frost-free zones.
My zoysia grass suffered over the winter and I went on a limb to buy a few small bags of seed to repair some bald spots in my lawn. Much to my surprise the seed is coming out after a week and I am expecting wonderful results. Happy camper.