Gomphocarpus physocarpus a member of the Milkweed family that has many common names including Hairy Balls, Giant Swan Plant, Goose Plant, Family Jewels, Oscar, Monkey Balls, and Balloon Plant. (Asclepias physocarpa is the former botanical name.)
It is native to South America and grown as an annual in our
region. It is hardy to zones 9-11.
It prefers full sun and moderate moisture. It can grow 4-6 feet high. The flowers are
not that showy, but the seed pods are a show-stopper.
Like other Milkweeds, it supports Monarch caterpillars and
butterflies – as well as other pollinators. It is also deer-resistant.
You can start seeds indoors a few weeks before the last
expected frost date in spring and then transplant them outdoors.
This plant is a favorite for flower arrangements. The
seedpods dry nicely and it makes a terrific conversation starter in the
landscape or on a table.
Gomphocarpus
physocarpus - You Can
Grow That!
The video was produced
by Washington Gardener Magazine.
Visuals by Nicole Noechel
Audio by Kathy Jentz
Filmed at the U.S. Botanic
Garden in Washington, DC.
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