Native Plants
![](../_images/smarty_plants.gif)
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.
![](../_images/mr_smarty_plants_logo_web_200w.jpg)
rate this answer
![](../_images/star_43.gif)
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 Propagation Questions
Blossoms but no fruit for gooseberries in Enoch UT
January 16, 2010 - My gooseberries always get loads of blossoms, but I never get fruit. I think they need more sun, and thus, want to transplant them to a sunnier location. What (and when) is the best way to do this?
view the full question and answer
Need some information about wild native grapes in Gatlinburg, TN.
August 13, 2010 - We have some wild grapevines growing on a southern exposure eroded bank. They are providing assistance in reducing erosion with rapid growth. Do these plants develop ground contact as they grow? In...
view the full question and answer
Seed source for Carex texensis from Louisville KY
May 02, 2012 - Your reply to my question re a grass for my Kentucky home with cistern only water available was much appreciated, Carex texensis was recommended. I am unable to find this product for sale other than ...
view the full question and answer
Propagation of Tournefortia volubilis
December 07, 2012 - I am a State Park Host at Estero Llano Grande SP in Weslaco, TX and am looking for information on the Tournefortia volubilis, Googly-eyed vine. I would like to know if there is a best method for propa...
view the full question and answer
Taking a cutting from Niagara grape in Warfordsburg PA
April 27, 2010 - How do I take a cutting from a Niagara grape plant, and then re-plant that cutting?
view the full question and answer
Support the Wildflower Center by Donating Online or Becoming a Member today. |