Heart Seed (Cardiospermum halicacabum)

Family: Sapindaceae | Edibility: Edible (1/5)

Cardiospermum halicacabum is a deciduous Climber growing to 3 m (9ft 10in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 9 and is frost tender. It is in flower from July to August, and the seeds ripen from August to October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves, Shoots

Harvest Seasons: Spring, Early Summer

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Leaves and young shoots - cooked. Used as a spinach. Edible parts: Leaves, Seeds, Fruit, Stems [1d]. — Leaves and young shoots - cooked.; Used as a spinach.; Edible parts: Leaves, Seeds, Fruit, Stems [1d].

Habitat & North American Range

Moist thickets and waste ground in Eastern N. America. (Zone 8)