Japanese morning glory
ipomoea nil
Also known as: ["Japanese morning glory","Asian morning glory","Japanese bindweed"]
Overview
A fast-growing, twining vine with large, heart-shaped leaves and showy, funnel-shaped flowers that typically open in the morning.
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 nil |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: trellis or fence in garden, or container with support
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days in dry climates, rarely required otherwise
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; cactus or succulent mix can work well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, but generally every 4–6 weeks during active growth.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if necessary to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); adjust to partial shade in extreme heat to prevent scorching.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; provide shade during peak afternoon hours in hot climates; ensure proper ventilation if grown indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light indoors; avoid placing in drafty areas.
Watering
every 3–5 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure proper drainage; avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-draining, fertile potting mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a pot with drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Warm temperatures (65–85°F or 18–29°C); prefers stable conditions; sensitive to frost.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain consistent warmth during flowering.
Fertilizing
every 2 weeks during growing season, monthly in spring and fall
Apply fertilizer to moist soil to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid fertilizing stressed plants.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in water or soil; seeds can also be used for propagation.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select a healthy stem.
- Cut below a node.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Place in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining soil mix or water; perlite or sand can improve drainage.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can speed up the process.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 1–3 weeks; new growth may appear in 4–6 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone (optional), small pots or containers, water or soil medium.
Quick Tips
Use stems with visible nodes; keep cuttings out of direct sun; change water regularly if using water propagation.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushier growth; cut stems just above a leaf node or junction.
Pruning Plan
Prune to encourage bushier growth, remove dead or diseased stems, and control size.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during active growth; remove dead or crossing stems; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots outgrow the pot; beneficial for rejuvenation.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid overhead watering.
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 and fungal risk.
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 soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or bud drop in response to extreme cold or heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf drop, and can lead to root damage or death in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; use a heat mat for seedlings; cover outdoor plants with frost cloth during cold snaps.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or scorch; growth may slow due to excessive transpiration.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting; ensure adequate watering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute correctly; apply during growing season; avoid over-fertilization.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 2–4 weeks during active growth (spring/summer); reduce or stop in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild to moderate toxicity if they ingest the seeds of Ipomoea nil, which contain ergoline alkaloids that can affect the nervous system.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe seeds of Ipomoea nil can cause mild gastrointestinal upset and neurological effects in dogs due to the presence of ergoline alkaloids.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicIpomoea nil contains ergoline alkaloids, which can cause mild to moderate toxicity when ingested. These compounds can affect the central nervous system and gastrointestinal tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Ipomoea nil?
A: Water regularly, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, especially during blooming periods.
Q: Does Ipomoea nil require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun, which encourages abundant flowering.
Q: Is Ipomoea nil invasive?
A: While it can spread quickly, it is not typically considered invasive in most regions, but it should be monitored in gardens.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Convolvulaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 3–5 days during active |
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