Blue Morning Glory
ipomoea indica
Also known as: ["Blue Dawn Flower","Blue Trumpet Vine"]
Overview
A vigorous, twining vine with large, heart-shaped leaves and striking blue-purple trumpet-shaped flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Solanales |
| Family: | Convolvulaceae |
| Genus: | Ipomoea |
| Botanical Name: | Ipomoea indica |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: trellis or fence for climbing, or as a ground cover in warm climates
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if necessary
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates some shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Morning sun is ideal; provide shade during peak heat; rotate plant for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-drained, fertile soil with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0)
Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure good aeration; maintain consistent moisture.
Temperature
Thrives in warm conditions (65–85°F or 18–29°C); prefers stable temperatures; sensitive to frost.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; maintain humidity in dry heat.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Fertilize only when actively growing; avoid over-fertilizing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand
Hormone
Recommended to promote root development
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; establish in 8–12 weeks
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective pruning of long or leggy stems; pinch back tips to promote branching
Pruning Plan
Prune to control size, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased stems.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp knife, gloves
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during active growth; remove dead/diseased parts; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure good drainage holes
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and health.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold; chlorosis in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Growth slows or halts; leaves may turn yellow or brown; risk of frost damage.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide frost protection; reduce watering in cool conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; growth may slow; increased water demand.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with roots.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; reduce or stop in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicIpomoea indica is toxic to cats, particularly its seeds and roots, which contain substances that can cause significant health problems when ingested.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe seeds and roots of Ipomoea indica are toxic to dogs, containing compounds that can disrupt normal bodily functions and lead to severe health issues upon ingestion.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicIpomoea indica contains toxic compounds, primarily in its seeds and roots, which can cause significant physiological effects upon ingestion. The plant's toxins interfere with normal cellular functions, leading to a range of adverse reactions.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Ipomoea indica invasive?
A: Yes, it can be invasive in some regions due to its vigorous growth habit.
Q: How often should I water Ipomoea indica?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Q: Does Ipomoea indica attract pollinators?
A: Yes, its flowers attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Convolvulaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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