Balsam Gourd Plants, Live Ibervillea Lindheimeri, Native Texas Caudiciform Vine- Free US Shipping

Ibervillea lindheimeri is a very unusual vine that is native to portions of Texas, Oklahoma and New Mexico. Common names for these plants include Balsam Gourd, Snake Apple, Globe Berry and Balsam Apple. These ornamental vines produce fruit that are enjoyed by a variety of birds, however the most interesting feature of this vine is the large caudex that forms over time.

Leaves, that closely resemble those of a grape, grow along the length of stems that can easily reach 10 feet. Small yellow blooms appear between late spring and late summer and are followed by green striped fruit that closely resemble 1 to 2 inch watermelons. As the fruit ripens, they change from green to orange and finally turn a vibrant red. Although there is little information on the toxicity of the fruit, the general consensus is that the fruit should not be eaten by humans.

The listing photos show plants representative of all that are available, growing in their 3 inch pots. They were grown from seed and are two to three years old. The vines will be 12 inches or longer when shipped. These are available in your choice of one or two plants that will be shipped in their pots with soil.

These vines can have a long lifespan and their caudex, an enlarged portion of the lower stem, continues to grow ever larger with age. I have seen these form a caudex greater than a foot in diameter. They are relatively cold tolerant, however the stems will die back if exposed to freezing temperatures and will regrow the following spring. If overwintered in a protected environment, such as a greenhouse, the vines will remain evergreen. These must be planted in soil that drains very well and, as they grow larger, the caudex may be planted above ground with a layer of fine stones or perlite between it and the soil. Mature plants are very drought tolerant. Plants the size of those being offered in this listing should be watered every two weeks during the warmer months and only once every four to six weeks for the balance of the year.

PLEASE NOTE: We do not use heat packs and we are not responsible for damage related to the plants being exposed to cold temperatures.

We cannot ship these to addresses within the states of California, Hawaii or to any of the US island territories. Contact us prior to ordering if the destination falls within the state of Alaska as additional shipping charges will apply.

Shipping to any other destination within the US is included in the listing price.