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

Cardiospermum coloradensis is a fossil plant found in the renowned Green River formation deposits, dating from the Eocene epoch, approximately 53 to 48 million years ago. These fossils were collected in Colorado, USA. The plant belongs to the soapberry family, which is easily recognizable today by its bright red fruit. The leaves are dark brown, while the shale matrix, characteristic of these fossils, is a pale sandy color.

Although the Green River Formation is best known for its remarkable fish fossils, it also hosts a diverse range of flora and fauna, including plants, invertebrates, and vertebrates such as reptiles and mammals. Eocene stromatolites are also represented. This willow leaf display shows detailed venation, and there is a small insect present, though not well preserved. Insects are rarely found in Green River fossils.

Fossils are abundant in the shales of the early Middle Eocene from the Green River Formation across Utah, Colorado, and Wyoming. It is evident that the family was a significant part of the vegetation surrounding the large lakes where these shales accumulated.