Native Plants
Q. Who is Mr. Smarty Plants?
A: There are those who suspect Wildflower Center volunteers are the culpable and capable culprits. Yet, others think staff members play some, albeit small, role. You can torture us with your plant questions, but we will never reveal the Green Guru's secret identity.
Did you know you can access the Native Plant Information Network with your web-enabled smartphone?
Ask Mr. Smarty Plants is a free service provided by the staff and volunteers at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.
rate this answer
Friday - May 11, 2012
From: Little Rock, AR
Region: Southeast
Topic: Invasive Plants, Propagation, Vines
Title: Need care instructions for Cardiosperma halicacabum in Little Rock, AR>
Answered by: Jimmy Mills
QUESTION:
I'd like to find out how to cultivate & care for a balloon vine/heart seed vine/love in a puff vine which I found growing wild in my yard (in Little Rock, Arkansas). There seems to be very little information available, as it seems many regard it as a weed. If possible, I would like information on what conditions it prefers, how hardy it is indoor/outdoor, and if it can be propagated from cuttings. Thank you!ANSWER:
First a word from our sponsor. The mission of the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center is to increase the sustainable use and conservation of native wildflowers, plants and landscapes.
Balloon Vine is a fast growing vine that is native to Tropical America, and is thus out of our area of focus. The USDA has placed it on the Arkansas State Noxious Weeds List.
I was able to find 2 sources that describe how to grow the plant.
landscapesolutions
plantsforafuture
In Little Rock, which is in Hardiness Zone 8a, the plant will probably grow as an annual (die back each winter), and re-seed each year. I did not find any specific references to propagating Balloon Vine by cuttings, but this link to North Carolina State University is a good reference for plant propagation in general.
More Vines Questions
Plant identification of vine with purple fruit
September 21, 2008 - Illinois: I have a vine, red stems purple fruit with grape like clusters (sweet.hope it wasn't poisonous)What is it?
view the full question and answer
Vine for trellis in Brooklyn, New York
June 11, 2014 - Hello, I am looking for a native vine to grow on a trellis in a large container. I live in Brooklyn, NY, and the area is in part shade. Thank you.
view the full question and answer
Regenerating old cross-vines in Richardson, TX
June 26, 2008 - I have been asked to landscape a memorial garden at church. The garden is small and has a 10x 15-foot brick wall around the back in a c-shape in full sun. Planted on the wall are several very overgro...
view the full question and answer
Growing Grapes in Southern Texas on an Arbor
July 02, 2014 - I've redirected several grape vines (from the top third of a broken oak tree) onto an arbor. The base of the vine is about 3 or 4 inches in diameter. Is it feasible to work with (prune) the smaller b...
view the full question and answer
Questions about Clematis virginiana in Austin, TX.
August 26, 2011 - Hello! I have a few questions regarding Clematis virginiana. Is it scented? Does it attract birds and butterflies? Do only female flowers get the feathery plumes? If yes, how do I know if ...
view the full question and answer
Support the Wildflower Center by Donating Online or Becoming a Member today. |