Balsam Apple
Peggy Cornett of the Thomas Jefferson Center for Historic Plants recommends Momordica balsamina, or balsam apple. This fast-growing vine will provide lush foliage and bursts of orange color from its fruits.
Plant name: Balsam apple
Botanical name: Momordica balsamina
Suggested by: Peggy Cornett, Thomas Jefferson Center for Historic Plants
Virtues: Fast-growing and carefree; covers a trellis quickly with dense, lush foliage; bears warty bright orange fruits that burst open when ripe.
Flower: Delicate, pale yellow and simple.
Foliage: Very clean, glossy, light green, deeply lobed and serrated.
Habit: Vining to at least 15 feet.
Season: Midsummer through frost.
Companions: Cypress vine, balsam pear and just about any summer-flowering display.
mgodfreyAuthor
Related Stories
