Balloon Vine (Cardiospermum corindum)

Description:  Fast-growing vine with small white flowers and seed pods resembling  paper lanterns. 

Natural Habitat:  Hammock edges.

Planting and Care:  Does well with moist organic soil but tolerant of drought once it is established.  

Pros:  Larval host plant for Silver-Banded Hairstreak (Chlorostrymon simaethis). Attractive seed capsules.

Cons:   Can become aggressive. 

Note:  As ranges of butterflies can fluctuate over time,  planting host plant(s) may not automatically result in bringing a desired species to a given area.

Photo copyright Roger Hammer