Whitestar
ipomoea lacunosa
Also known as: ["Whitestar morning glory","pale morning glory"]
Overview
A herbaceous annual vine in the morning glory family, known for its heart-shaped leaves and small, star-shaped white flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Solanales |
| Family: | Convolvulaceae |
| Genus: | Ipomoea |
| Botanical Name: | Ipomoea lacunosa |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed or container in open, sunny area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter; cactus or succulent mix can work well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually if moving from shade to sun; protect from intense midday sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct afternoon sun in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with moderate organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).
Use raised beds for better drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter for fertility.
Temperature
Warm temperatures (65–85°F/18–29°C); sensitive to frost; prefers stable conditions.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature shifts; maintain consistent warmth for best growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use organic options for gentle feeding.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed; stem cuttings root easily in water or soil.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Place in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions (70–75°F/21–24°C); indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining soil mix or water; perlite or sand can improve drainage.
Hormone
Optional but can speed up rooting; rooting powder or gel is recommended.
Timeline
Roots develop in 1–3 weeks; new growth appears in 4–6 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, container, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use clean tools to prevent disease; maintain high humidity for faster rooting; change water regularly if using water propagation.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips to encourage branching; trim leggy stems to maintain shape.
Pruning Plan
Prune to control size, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp scissors, or your fingers for small stems.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune in early morning; remove dead/diseased parts; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Move to a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter; avoid oversized pots.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; use fresh well-draining soil; ensure proper drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil freshness.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare new soil; water before repotting; place in shade for recovery.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
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 feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
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 purple or brown; risk of frost damage or death.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide frost protection; avoid cold drafts; mulch to insulate roots.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or flower 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 growth phase; dilute fertilizer correctly; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with foliage.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal and neurological effects if they ingest the seeds of Ipomoea lacunosa. The alkaloids present can lead to temporary discomfort but are not usually fatal.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe seeds of Ipomoea lacunosa contain alkaloids that may cause mild gastrointestinal upset and mild neurological symptoms in dogs if consumed. The effects are typically not life-threatening but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicIpomoea lacunosa contains alkaloids that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and neurological effects if ingested in significant quantities. The physiological impact is generally limited to temporary discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Ipomoea lacunosa invasive?
A: Yes, it can be considered invasive in some regions due to its rapid growth and self-seeding habit.
Q: Does Whitestar attract pollinators?
A: Yes, its flowers are attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Q: How should I care for Ipomoea lacunosa?
A: It thrives in full sun, tolerates poor soil, and requires minimal watering once established.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Convolvulaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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