Balsam Gourd
Ibervillea lindheimeri
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
72"–240" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
NM, OK, TX
Pollinators
nectar insects
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Balsam Gourd is a native Texas vine that grows 6-20 feet tall with small white to yellow flowers blooming from spring through summer. This drought-tolerant climber goes dormant in winter and produces small gourd-like fruits that wildlife enjoy.
In an HOA neighborhood
Balsam Gourd takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Requires support structure
- Can appear messy
Wildlife value
The long blooming period from March through August provides nectar for various insects including bees and butterflies. Birds and small mammals eat the small fruits that develop after flowering.
Common questions
- How much sun does Balsam Gourd need?
- Balsam Gourd grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Balsam Gourd bloom?
- Balsam Gourd blooms in March, April, May, June, July, and August.
- Where is Balsam Gourd native?
- Balsam Gourd (Ibervillea lindheimeri) is native to NM, OK, TX, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Balsam Gourd attract?
- Balsam Gourd draws nectar insects.
- Is Balsam Gourd HOA-friendly?
- Balsam Gourd takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does Balsam Gourd fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.