Corkscrew Vine, Cardinal Climber

ipomoea quamoclit

Also known as: ["Cardinal Vine","Fairy Fan Vine"]

Family: Convolvulaceae Genus: Ipomoea Category: Flowers

Overview

A fast-growing, twining vine with delicate, fern-like foliage and bright red, tubular flowers that attract hummingbirds.

Benefits & Perks

["long-flowering","fast growing","fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]

Botanical Classification

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

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed or container in full sun
  • Suitable For:
    Beginners Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • 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 to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand for aeration.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: Every 4–6 weeks during growing season; as needed for maintenance.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if necessary.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate full sun but may need acclimation.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Gradually introduce to full sun to prevent leaf burn; provide shade during intense midday sun if outdoors.

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

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

easy

Sunlight

full sun

Rotate plant for even growth; avoid direct afternoon sun in summer.

Watering

every 3–5 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Water thoroughly but allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.

Soil

well-draining, loamy soil with moderate organic content

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

Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils.

Temperature

Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); thrives in warm conditions with protection from frost.

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

Fertilizing

every 2 weeks during growing season, monthly in spring and fall

Fertilize during active growth; avoid over-fertilizing to prevent salt buildup.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings in water or moist soil.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a 4–6 inch cutting, remove lower leaves, place in medium, keep moist.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

Warm, humid conditions with indirect light.

Medium

Well-draining soil mix or water with occasional changes.

Hormone

Optional but can speed up rooting.

Timeline

Roots typically form in 1–3 weeks; new growth in 4–6 weeks.

Tools Needed

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

Quick Tips

Use clean tools, keep cuttings out of direct sun, maintain humidity.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node.

Pruning Plan

Prune to control size, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or weak stems.

Tools

Clean pruners or scissors, gloves.

Checklist

Sanitize tools, prune during active growth, remove dead/damaged 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 new pot with fresh soil, water lightly.

Suggestions

Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; promotes fresh soil and space.

Checklist

Choose appropriate pot, prepare new soil, handle roots carefully, water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture, water thoroughly, ensure drainage, adjust for season.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, ensuring even moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away to prevent waterlogging.

Pro Tip: Use room temperature water to avoid shocking the roots.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water when the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in cold; leaf scorch or bud drop in excessive heat.

Cold Stress

Growth slows or halts; leaves may turn yellow or brown; risk of frost damage.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide a heat source if indoors; avoid cold drafts.

Hot Stress

Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; flowers may fade quickly.

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

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check season, dilute fertilizer, apply to moist soil, rinse container after use.

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

Yellowing leaves in Ipomoea quamoclit may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting the plant's photosynthetic efficiency and overall health.

Wilting in Ipomoea quamoclit can result from water stress, either due to drought or overwatering, disrupting nutrient uptake and potentially leading to plant death if not addressed.

Leaf spots on Ipomoea quamoclit are often caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, which can reduce photosynthetic capacity and, in severe cases, lead to defoliation.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, can occur in Ipomoea quamoclit due to excessive moisture or fungal infections, leading to decay and eventual plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

The seeds of Ipomoea quamoclit are mildly toxic to cats, primarily due to the ergoline alkaloids they contain. These substances can induce gastrointestinal and neurological symptoms in felines.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea depression tremors incoordination
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent cats from accessing the seeds. If ingestion is suspected, seek veterinary care without delay.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

The seeds of Ipomoea quamoclit can cause mild to moderate toxicity in dogs due to the presence of ergoline alkaloids. These compounds can lead to gastrointestinal upset and neurological disturbances in canines.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy tremors confusion
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep dogs away from the seeds of this plant. If ingestion is suspected, contact a veterinarian promptly.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

The seeds of Ipomoea quamoclit contain ergoline alkaloids, which can cause mild to moderate physiological effects when ingested. These compounds can disrupt normal neurotransmitter function, leading to altered mental states and gastrointestinal distress.

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

if eaten

Avoid ingesting the seeds. Keep away from children and pets. If accidental ingestion occurs, seek medical attention immediately.
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: How do I prune Ipomoea quamoclit?

A: Prune lightly to encourage bushier growth and remove any dead or damaged stems.

Q: Does this plant require support?

A: Yes, it is a twining vine and benefits from a trellis or support structure.

Q: What are the ideal growing conditions?

A: Full sun and well-drained soil with regular watering are ideal for optimal growth.

Quick Reference
Family: Convolvulaceae
Care: moderate
Light: full sun
Water: every 3–5 days during active
Suitable For: ["beginners","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

Shankhpushpi
View
Perennial Glasswort
View
Ground Morning Glory
View
Silver Ponyfoot
View