Balloon Flower -

Before opening, the flower buds swell up like small, puffy balloons, which kids often enjoy "popping". The flowers themselves are generally blue-purple, but also come in white or pink, featuring five lobes that create a wide, bell-star shape.

Because they develop a thick taproot, they do not like to be moved or divided once planted. Usage in Landscaping & Culture Garden Use: Ideal for perennial borders and rock gardens. balloon flower

The plants have bluish-green, serrated leaves and typically grow in clumps from 1 to 2 feet tall. Before opening, the flower buds swell up like

Needs consistent moisture but is tolerant of varying conditions once established. balloon flower

Deadheading (removing spent flowers) encourages continued blooming. Note that they are late to emerge in spring, so mark their location to avoid damage.