1.2" Detailed Cardiospermum Coloradensis Balloon Vine Fossil Plant Leaf Eocene Age

Cardiospermum coloradensis is a beautifully preserved fossil plant from the Green River Formation of Colorado, dating to the Eocene epoch, approximately 53–48 million years ago. This species belongs to the soapberry family (Sapindaceae), recognized today for its bright red fruits. The fossilized leaves exhibit a deep brown coloration, contrasting elegantly with the pale sandy shale matrix, capturing fine details of leaf morphology and venation.

While the Green River Formation is most famous for its exceptional fish fossils, it also preserves a remarkable diversity of flora and fauna, including invertebrates, vertebrates such as reptiles and mammals, and even rare Eocene stromatolites. The presence of a small insect on some leaf specimens, though not well-preserved, offers a glimpse into ecological interactions, as insects are infrequently fossilized in this formation.

Abundant shales from the early Middle Eocene across Utah, Colorado, and Wyoming reveal that Cardiospermum coloradensis and its relatives were key components of the lake-margin vegetation. These fossils provide invaluable insight into the composition, diversity, and structure of prehistoric plant communities, helping paleobotanists reconstruct ancient Eocene ecosystems.

Ideal for collectors, museums, and educational purposes, this Cardiospermum fossil leaf offers a tangible connection to the lush, freshwater landscapes of North America during the Eocene. Its exceptional preservation highlights the importance of herbaceous