Balsam Apple Seeds ( Momordica balsamina )

A curious, tendril-bearing annual vine native to the tropical regions of Africa, Asia, and Australia. Although the pale yellow, deeply veined flowers of Balsam Apple have a subtle beauty, its round, somewhat warty, bright-orange fruits, or ""apples"", are its most distinguishing feature. When ripe, the fruits burst apart, revealing numerous seeds covered with a brilliant scarlet, extremely sticky coating. The Balsam Apple was introduced into Europe by 1568 and was used medicinally to treat wounds. In 1810 Thomas Jefferson planted this vine in his flower borders at Monticello along with Larkspur, Poppies, and Nutmeg Plant. Sow the seeds about one-half inch deep in fertile, well-prepared garden soil during late spring. Balsam Apple thrives in a warm, sunny location and will bloom until frost. Approximately 8-10 seeds per pack. Line Drawing from Henderson's Handbook of Plants by Peter Henderson (1890)