Native to primarily southern California into Baja California, Bladderpod grows in a variety of habitats from coastal bluffs to desert washes. It is an evergreen shrub that grows 2-4 feet tall. Its blue-green leaves give off a pungent odor when disturbed. Some say it smells like burnt popcorn, others say a combination of bell peppers and onions. The odor is thought to discourage insects from eating the leaves. Yellow flowers are produced in clusters year-round with a peak in winter and spring. The flowers are followed by inflated seed pods, giving the plant its common name. A perfect landscape plant that provides a year-round display with newly forming buds, flowers, and developing fruit at all stages. Often all on display at the same time.
Bladderpod is an excellent addition to your wildlife habitat. It provides a source of cover for small animals, and nectar for hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies while also being resistant to predation by deer and rabbits.