Working on revamping some landscaping we put in over 15 years ago! Tearing out an old pond and making it bigger, better and more beautiful than ever! I will of course post pictures to all social media outlets, the website and will awkwardly show it off on my phone whenever possible. In light of taking landscapes up to bigger and better places lets talk about a plant that can help you do the same! This weeks Plant of the week will raise your landscape to new heights! Introducing, Playcodon grandiflorus or the Balloon Flower!

Why Use Balloon Flower?

Kids love it, adults love it, animals love it…its that cute sweat nephew that hasn’t gotten on your nerves yet! The plant gets its name thanks to the appearance of its unopened buds. Resembling a balloon and popping like one make this a very fun and interesting plant for your kids. You, as an adult, will adore the brilliant colors and very low maintenance needs! Flowers generally come in blues or purples, colors like pink and white are also available.

Where to Plant Your Balloon Flower?

This plant provides some pretty easy landscaping. Plant it in a spot that at least gets partial sun, looking to avoid those intense afternoon oven sessions Indiana offers. Remember to water during dry spells and really, that’s about it.  In your landscape I would use balloon flower as a way to ensure color throughout mid Summer through the Fall season.  Keeping that in mind, look to plant this with early season bloomers to ensure you have year round interest in your garden. Use this tucked between rocks, in a perennial boarder or near a patio to add wonderful mid to late season color!

What Does Eagleson Landscape Co think?

Love. This. Plant. Simple.

I rate this as a solid A.  Great long term color, especially during the Fall which is so often neglected. Ease of maintenance, next to no pest or disease problems and a size that makes it easy to add into an existing landscape make this a big time winner in my book! Simply water and deadhead spent flowers and you will be rewarded with a wonderful show of flowers for months! Read more about this great plant here and here. Get out there and garden!