This very unusual Milkweed goes by many common names- Hairy Balls Milkweed or Family Jewels Milkweed. This is a tropical milkweed from Africa that is hardy in zones 9-11. This plant is sometimes known as Balloon Plant or Swan Plant. Grow this milkweed as an annual in colder regions.
Just so, how do you grow hairy ball milkweed?
Start seeds at least 6-8 weeks inside; easy to germinate in about a week. Flowers aren’t super showy, but still attractive. Fewer pollinators use this than native Milkweed. Pinch back the plant to make it bushier and with a stronger stem.
Secondly, what is hairy balls milkweed?
Gomphocarpus physocarpus, commonly known as hairy balls, balloonplant, balloon cotton-bush, bishop’s balls, nailhead, or swan plant, is a species of milkweed. The plant is native to southeast Africa, but it has been widely naturalized. It is often used as an ornamental plant.
What plant has green balls?
What plant has green spiky balls?
If you’ve encountered some round, spiny balls under a tree or maybe still on the plant, and you’re wondering what it could be, it’s likely one of several options: buckeye/horsechestnut (Aesculus), chestnut (Castanea), or sweet gum (Liquidambar styraciflua).
What does a hairy ball plant look like?
The pods are covered with long hair–like spines. Flowers are followed by unusual fruits that look like hairy, inflated spheres. The pale green, soft, almost translucent, bladder-like follicles, covered with soft hair–like spines, swell to up to 3 inches in diameter.
Does hairy balls milkweed need stratification?
Propagation, Grow Asclepias physocarpa from seed
This milkweed seed does not need to be cold stratified but it is best to store the seeds, dry, in a sealed plastic bag in the refrigerator until ready to sow.
Does milkweed need a lot of water?
Water. Common milkweed does not need watering except in the driest conditions.
What do balloon flower seeds look like?
After the bloom dies off, you’ll see a brown pod at the end of the stem. … Wait until the stem and pod dry out completely, then snap the stem and place the pod into a paper bag. Once you break open the pods, you’ll find hundreds of tiny brown seeds that look like miniature grains of brown rice.
How do you harvest Swan seeds?
The seeds can easily be removed from the seedpod by holding onto the floss. The seeds attached to their floss. Hold the floss tight and brush the seeds off. Discard any seeds that do not seem fully formed.
How do you grow Asclepias Physocarpa?
Asclepias physocarpa can be planted in rear of your perennial border, as it can reach four to six feet in width and six feet in height. This annual prefers full sun to partial shade. Experiment with the balloon plant this gardening season for a great conversation piece with your neighbors.
What is African milkweed?
Swan Plant or African Milkweed (Asclepias fruticosa) is a species of milkweed native to South Africa.
Is Cotton Bush poisonous?
Narrow-leaved cotton bush (Gomphocarpus fruticosus) is poisonous to livestock and humans, and has caused deaths in cattle, sheep and poultry. It is seldom consumed fresh by livestock, but may be dangerous if it contaminates fodder or chaff. Severe gastroenteritis is the main symptom of poisoning by this species.
