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Gomphocarpus physocarpus

Family: Apocynaceae (Asclepiadoideae) (Num-num (Milkweed subfamily) family)

Common names: Balloon Milkweed, Balloon Wild Cotton, Bishop’s Balls, Hairy Balls, Bindweed (E); umbababa (Z); Balmelkbossie, Balbossie (A);

Native to: Southern Africa
Perennial, Shrub

Gomphocarpus physocarpus

EVERGREEN

FULL SUN

FROST HARDY

MEDIUM WATER REQUIREMENTS

FAST GROWER

ATTRACTS INSECTS

Gomphocarpus physocarpus

DESCRIPTION

A spindly shrub to 2m with rounded pale green, slightly prickly pods which burst open to reveal a mass of white silky threads.

NATURAL HABITAT & DISTRIBUTION
Grassland
WILDLIFE & ECOLOGICAL BENEFITS
This shrub attracts a host of insects.
MAINTENANCE
Low maintenance.
LANDSCAPING USES
GARDEN THEMES
Grassland
FLOWERS
FOLIAGE
BARK
FRUIT
SEED
BUTTERFLY/MOTH HOST PLANT
Danaus chrysippus (African Monarch)
CAUTION
As a member of the milkweed family, it produces a milky latex which is poisonous.

4 responses

  1. Hi Dix

    Thanks for visiting Plantbook.

    We are passionate gardeners and our knowledge on how wildlife uses several species is based on observation. For medicinal uses, you’d need to consult with other sources as we do not have this information.

    Flourish!
    Glenice

  3. Hi there

    Thanks for visiting Plantbook.

    The flower doesn’t have a strong scent for the average human nose.

    Flouirish!
    Glenice

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