Balloon Seeds – Perennial Platycodon Grandiflorus

Balloon Seeds (commonly known as Balloon Flower in the U.S.) produce charming, balloon-shaped buds that open into star-like blooms in shades of blue, white, or pink. These long-lasting perennials bring a vibrant touch to gardens, borders, and containers. Known for their hardy nature and reliable blooms year after year, Balloon Flowers attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, making them an excellent choice for eco-friendly gardening.

Features:

• Produces unique balloon-shaped buds that open into striking, star-like flowers

• Ideal for perennial garden beds, borders, and containers

• Low-maintenance and drought-tolerant once established

• Attracts bees and butterflies

• Long blooming season with vibrant color display

• Thrives in both full sun and partial shade

Specifications:

• Common Name: Balloon Flower

• Scientific Name: Platycodon grandiflorus

• Plant Type: Perennial

• Growth Habit: Upright, clump-forming

• Height: 12–24 inches tall

• Bloom Colors: Blue, white, pink

• Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade

• Soil Type: Well-drained, loamy soil

• Water Needs: Moderate

• Germination Time: 14–21 days

• Blooming Season: Summer (June to August)

• Planting Season:

  • Sowing Indoors: Late winter to early spring (February–April)

  • Transplanting/Outdoor Sowing: After last frost in spring (April–May)

• USDA Hardiness Zones: 3–8

• Maintenance Level: Low

• Spacing: 12–15 inches apart

Planting & Care Tips:

1. Sow seeds on the surface of moist soil and gently press them in without covering deeply.

2. Keep the soil lightly moist until germination.

3. Once seedlings are 2–3 inches tall, transplant them outdoors in well-drained soil.

4. Water regularly during dry periods but avoid overwatering.

5. Deadhead spent blooms to encourage continuous flowering.