The balloon flower gets its name from its buds which become unusually swollen before breaking into bloom. They look like small balloons and its flowers are shaped like cups which face upward and are available in shades of pink, blue and white. The petals, which are shaped like stars, are highlighted by tender veins and yellow stamens. Unlike most other perennials, balloon flower blossoms profusely during mid to late summer and even in the early days of fall.

These perennial plants grow into a neat heap and grow best in soils which are well drained and require bright sunlight. These balloon flower plants also thrive well even in the shade. They are sturdy plants that can even survive mild drought conditions. The flowers are found extensively throughout the arid weather of Arizona and the sandy deserts of New Mexico as well as in Utah. It is a well-known and a popular garden flower for the simple reason that it can be grown with minimum care and is preserved as cut flowers also.