Family: Convolvulaceae
Common Name: Morning Glory

Originating from tropical and warm-temperate regions of the world, this large genus comprises some 500 species of evergreen or deciduous, annual and perennial herbs and subshrubs, with a few succulents. Most species have a twining habit, but there are also prostrate and erect growers. These plants are particularly useful for covering fences, trellises and banks, and can also be grown in pots. Although they are very attractive and have stunning flowers, some of the species have become invasive weeds and some species are quite poisonous to stock. They should be kept out of the reach of children (I. tricolor, for example, can induce hallucinations).

Species

I. alba, moonflower, zone 10, from tropical regions, reverses the usual flowering pattern by opening buds at sunset and closing them at dawn. This beautiful, perennial vine, often grown as an annual, has richly perfumed, round, white flowers, 15 cm (6 in) across, striped with lime green. It grows quickly to about 4 m (13 ft).

I. horsfalliae, cardinal creeper, zone 10, is very suitable for growing indoors in temperate climates. This lovely, perennial vine produces long, tubular, rosy red flowers almost all year round, requiring a moist soil with plenty of organic matter.

I. indica (Synonym: I. acuminata), purple winder or blue dawn flower, zone 10, is one of the most popular of the species, appearing particularly attractive in the early morning when the profusion of brilliant blue, trumpet-shaped flowers open. It is considered a weed in some warm countries.

I. pandurata, wild sweet potato vine, zone 9, is a twining or trailing perennial with large, tuberous roots and white and purple flowers, about 10 cm (4 in) across.

I. purpurea, common morning glory, zone 9, can be invasive in warm areas. It is a popular, annual climber and has pink, purple, red, or white, trumpet-shaped flowers.

Cultivation

Ipomoeas are generally grown from the hard seed, which should be gently filed away from the scar to break the seed coat, before planting, to aid germination. Some of the perennial species can be propagated from cuttings or layers. Mulch in early spring with a rich compost of decayed manure or leaf mould, particularly if the leaves have yellowed. In frost-prone climates, grow in an intermediate to warm greenhouse or conservatory, in soil-based potting compost. Provide maximum light but shade from direct sun. Alternatively, annuals or species treated as such can be grown outdoors in summer, in a well-drained, sunny, sheltered spot.

Climate

Zones 9 and 10.