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Balloon Cottonbush (Gomphocarpus physocarpus)

Balloon Cottonbush (Gomphocarpus physocarpus) is a striking perennial shrub known for its inflated, papery seed pods and white, waxy flowers.

Above information is sourced from Wikipedia

Sunlight

Prefers full sun for best growth and flowering.

Watering

Water when the top inch of soil feels dry.

Soil

Well-draining soil is essential. Prefers sandy loam but tolerates a range of soil types, including poor soils.

Temperature

Thrives in warm temperatures during the growing season.

Habitat

Outdoor, Greenhouse

Fertilizer

Feed monthly with a balanced fertilizer during spring and summer.

Care Requirements

Light

Prefers full sun for best growth and flowering.

Tolerates partial shade.

Water

Water when the top inch of soil feels dry.

Reduce in cooler months.

Soil

Well-draining soil is essential. Prefers sandy loam but tolerates a range of soil types, including poor soils.

Temperature

Thrives in warm temperatures during the growing season.

Protect from frost.

Habitat

Outdoor, Greenhouse

Fertilizer

Feed monthly with a balanced fertilizer during spring and summer.

Avoid over-fertilizing.

Plant Overview

Plant Type

Shrub

Plant Category

Flowering, Ornamental

Plant Place Type

Ground, Pot

Plant Environment

Outdoor, Greenhouse

Lifespan

Perennials

Plant Height

1-1.5 m

Spread

1-1.5 m

Growth Rate

Moderate

Dormancy

None

Leaf Color

Green

Leaf Type

Simple

Flower Size

1.5-2 cm

Optimal Sunlight Lux

50000

Image Gallery

Synonyms
Asclepias brasiliensis (E.Fourn.) Schltr.
Asclepias physocarpa (E.Mey.) Schltr.
Gomphocarpus brasiliensis E.Fourn.
Taxonomy
  • kingdomPlantae
  • divisionTracheophyta
  • classMagnoliopsida
  • orderGentianales
  • familyApocynaceae
  • genusGomphocarpus
  • speciesGomphocarpus physocarpus
Toxicity

Toxic for humans

Yes

Rating: 3/5

Toxic for pets

Yes

Rating: 4/5

Edible

No

All parts of the plant are toxic if ingested, containing cardiac glycosides. Sap can cause skin irritation.

Additional Care Tips

FAQs