Balloon Flower seeds (Toraji)
Balloon flower seeds (toraji):
This perennial flower, adorned in striking blue, unfolds a narrative that transcends its visual charm. Its name, derived from the distinctive blooming process, reflects the buds' gradual expansion akin to an inflated balloon, ultimately revealing a breathtaking blue star. Standing at a height of two feet, these plants grace the late season with an abundance of explosive blooms, a radiant display when many other flowers have waned.
Rooted in ancient medicinal practices native to Asia, the balloon flower found its way to the western world through the adventurous endeavors of Robert Fortune, an infamous tea thief from England. In the 1800s, Fortune, in disguise, infiltrated China to pilfer tea plants for the British government.
Beyond its ornamental appeal, the balloon flower's roots hold significance for their antimicrobial and antibacterial properties, revered in Asian traditional medicine. Particularly popular in Korea and China, the roots find culinary use, adding a distinctive touch to regional dishes. It's essential to note, however, that while the roots are edible, caution is advised against consuming the leaves or flowers. The balloon flower, with its captivating history and multifaceted qualities, stands as a testament to nature's intriguing interplay between beauty and utility.
Seed count: 200
**Germination is lower on these, bags will be overfilled to 300 seeds (same price)
Botanic name:
Platycodon grandiflorus
Plant spacing:
12"-18"
Color:
Green foliage with violet-blue flowers
Sowing depth:
Surface sow - barely covered with soil, keep the soil moist and avoid letting it dry out in between waterings. Mist the soil so the water doesn't displace the seeds.
Sun requirements:
Full sun / part shade
Utilization:
Soapwort can be grown for its beauty or for more practical uses such as creating your own natural handsoap or laundry detergent.
Frost hardy:
Yes
Maturity days:
60-70 days
Life cycle:
Perennial
Can I start indoors:
Yes
Container friendly:
Yes
Other names:
Soapweed, Bouncing-Bet, Crow Soap, Wild Sweet William, Latherwort, Lady’s-wash Bowl, Old Maid’s-pink and Fuller’s Herb
