Coastal Morning Glory

ipomoea cairica

Also known as: ["Mile-a-minute Vine","Cairo Morning Glory"]

Family: Convolvulaceae Genus: Ipomoea Category: Flowers

Overview

A vigorous, fast-growing vine with heart-shaped leaves and funnel-shaped flowers, often found in coastal regions.

Benefits & Perks

["fast growing","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Solanales
Family: Convolvulaceae
Genus: Ipomoea
Botanical Name: Ipomoea cairica

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: trellis, fence, or wall in garden, or large container with support
  • Suitable For:
    Busy People (low Maintenance) Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
  • Misting: rarely required unless in very dry indoor conditions
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: high
  • 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 (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade but may become leggy.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil or drainage issues.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
easy

easy

Sunlight

full sun

Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains for filtered light; avoid direct sun in hot climates.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure proper drainage; adjust based on season and growth stage.

Soil

well-draining, sandy loam with moderate organic content

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).

Ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter.

Temperature

Thrives in 65–85°F (18–29°C); prefers warm, stable conditions; sensitive to frost.

Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; maintain consistent warmth.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer

Dilute fertilizer to half strength; avoid over-fertilizing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings in water or soil.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take cutting.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Place in medium.
  4. Maintain moisture.
  5. Wait for roots.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is active.

Environment

Warm, humid, and bright indirect light.

Medium

Well-draining soil mix or water with occasional changes.

Hormone

Optional but can speed up rooting.

Timeline

Roots in 2–4 weeks; establish in 6–8 weeks.

Tools Needed

Pruners, rooting hormone (optional), container, water or soil medium.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; change water regularly if using water propagation.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Cut stems just above a leaf node or bud; thin out crowded areas.

Pruning Plan

Encourage bushier growth and control spread; remove dead or overgrown stems.

Tools

Pruning shears, gloves, disinfectant.

Checklist

Sanitize tools; cut at correct angle; remove dead/damaged growth; clean up debris.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before active growth begins.

Pot Size

One size larger pot; ensure it has drainage holes.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil mix; ensure good drainage.

Suggestions

Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; prevents root-bound conditions.

Checklist

Check root health; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water lightly after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; avoid wetting foliage; allow excess water to drain away.

Pro Tip: Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal growth.
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.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or bud drop in extreme heat or cold.

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; avoid cold drafts.

Hot Stress

Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow due to excessive heat.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check season; use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; avoid foliage contact.

Fertilizing Method

Use balanced liquid fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); reduce or stop in fall/winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Ipomoea cairica can indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Ipomoea cairica may result from water stress, either due to drought or overwatering, disrupting nutrient uptake and potentially leading to plant death.

Leaf spots on Ipomoea cairica are often caused by fungal or bacterial infections, which can reduce photosynthetic efficiency and lead to leaf drop.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, can occur in Ipomoea cairica due to excessive moisture, leading to decay and loss of structural integrity.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Cats are sensitive to the indole alkaloids found in Ipomoea cairica, particularly in its seeds and roots. Ingestion can result in mild to moderate gastrointestinal and neurological symptoms, though severe toxicity is rare.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea depression tremors loss of coordination
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds roots
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep cats away from the plant. If ingestion occurs, seek veterinary advice immediately.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

In dogs, ingestion of Ipomoea cairica seeds or roots may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset and neurological disturbances due to the presence of indole alkaloids. While not life-threatening in small quantities, larger ingestions can cause more severe symptoms.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy tremors excessive drooling
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds roots
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent dogs from accessing the plant, especially seeds and roots. If ingestion is suspected, contact a veterinarian promptly.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Ipomoea cairica contains indole alkaloids, particularly in its seeds and roots, which can cause mild to moderate gastrointestinal and neurological effects upon ingestion. The plant is not typically considered highly toxic, but consumption can lead to discomfort and adverse reactions.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting abdominal pain dizziness headache
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds roots
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid ingesting any parts of the plant. Keep away from children and pets, and wash hands thoroughly after handling.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Ipomoea cairica invasive?

A: Yes, it can be invasive in some regions due to its rapid growth and spreading habit.

Q: Does it require full sun?

A: Yes, it thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade.

Q: Is it safe for pets?

A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested, so caution is advised.

Quick Reference
Family: Convolvulaceae
Care: easy
Light: full sun
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["busy people (low maintenance)","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Get Expert Care Tips

Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!

Google Play App Store
Share This Plant

Related Plants

Whitestar
View
Milkweed Vine
View
Tearleaf Morning Glory
View
Nicaraguan Maripa
View