Balloon vine
Cardiospermum grandiflorum
Balloon vine
Legal Status: Unwanted Organism - DOC
Status in New Zealand: Established
Organism: Land plants
This species is rare in New Zealand, but has the potential to become widespread.
Report sightings to hotline ph 0800 809 966
Description
Balloon vine is a perennial climber. Its name comes from the light-green thin-walled papery 4-8 cm long inflated capsule containing three black seeds. The light-green leaves are divided into three sets of three leaflets. White four-petalled flowers occur throughout the year.
Impact
The fruits are carried by wind or water. The plant grows in moist areas along river edges, forest margins and road edges. It can climb up to 10 m high, smother taller vegetation and shade small plants.
What to do
Contact your regional council to determine the status of this species and responsibility for control and/or advice on control.
- NPPA Manual
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Page last updated: 18 June 2008