Saltmarsh Morning Glory

ipomoea sagittata

Also known as: ["Seaside Morning Glory","Arrowleaf Morning Glory"]

Family: Convolvulaceae Genus: Ipomoea Category: Flowers

Overview

A coastal vine with arrow-shaped leaves and white morning glory flowers, typically found in salt marshes and coastal areas.

Benefits & Perks

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

Botanical Classification

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

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed with support for climbing or trailing
  • Suitable For:
    Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–30°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 added perlite or sand for aeration.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: As needed, but generally every 2–3 months or after flowering.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if necessary to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun; protect from intense midday sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves (overwatering), wilting despite moist soil (root rot), or stunted growth (nutrient deficiency).

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

easy

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; move outdoors in spring/summer for stronger light.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure proper drainage; avoid wetting foliage.

Soil

well-draining, sandy loam with moderate organic content

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

Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid compacted soil; refresh topsoil annually.

Temperature

Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); thrives in warm, humid conditions; sensitive to cold drafts.

Avoid placing near drafty windows or air vents; use a humidifier in dry environments; monitor temperature fluctuations.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season

Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; adjust frequency based on growth rate.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings in water or soil; division of clumps for mature plants.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a 4–6 inch cutting with at least 2 nodes.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Place in medium.
  4. Keep moist and warm.

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

Environment

Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.

Medium

Well-draining potting mix or water with occasional changes; add perlite for better aeration.

Hormone

Optional but can speed up rooting; use a mild rooting hormone if desired.

Timeline

Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks in water; soil propagation may take slightly longer.

Tools Needed

Sharp scissors or knife, rooting hormone (optional), small pots or jars, well-draining medium.

Quick Tips

Use clean tools to prevent disease; 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 bud.

Pruning Plan

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

Tools

Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune in early morning; remove dead/diseased parts first; make clean cuts.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before the active growing season begins.

Pot Size

Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly after repotting.

Suggestions

Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil freshness.

Checklist

Select appropriate pot; prepare new soil mix; handle roots carefully; 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.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to direct water to the roots without disturbing the soil surface.
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 coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost 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; roots may rot in cold, wet soil; leaves may turn yellow or brown.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; reduce watering in cool conditions.

Hot Stress

Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; growth may slow; soil may dry out too quickly.

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

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check fertilizer label; dilute properly; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Ipomoea sagittata may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations such as mealybugs or spider mites, affecting the plant's photosynthetic efficiency.

Wilting in Ipomoea sagittata can be caused by water stress, either due to overwatering leading to root rot or underwatering, resulting in dehydration and reduced turgor pressure in the plant tissues.

Leaf spots on Ipomoea sagittata may be caused by fungal or bacterial infections, leading to necrotic areas on the leaves, reduced photosynthesis, and potential defoliation.

Rotting in Ipomoea sagittata is often associated with root or stem rot caused by excessive moisture and fungal pathogens, leading to decay of plant tissues and potential plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Cats that ingest Ipomoea sagittata seeds or roots may experience mild gastrointestinal discomfort. The alkaloids present can cause mild symptoms, but severe toxicity is rare.

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

if eaten

Prevent cats from accessing the plant. Seek veterinary advice if ingestion is suspected.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

Ingestion of Ipomoea sagittata seeds or roots by dogs can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the presence of alkaloids. The effects are typically not severe but should be monitored.

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

if eaten

Keep plants out of reach of dogs. If ingestion occurs, consult a veterinarian.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Ipomoea sagittata contains alkaloids that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and other mild symptoms upon ingestion. The physiological impact is generally limited to the digestive system.

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

if eaten

Avoid ingestion of seeds and roots. Keep away from children and pets.
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 sagittata toxic to pets?

A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.

Q: Where does Ipomoea sagittata grow best?

A: It thrives in coastal areas, salt marshes, and sandy soils with partial shade.

Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers.

Quick Reference
Family: Convolvulaceae
Care: moderate
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["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

Ground Morning Glory
View
Golden Trumpet Vine, Yellow Trumpet Vine
View
Field Bindweed
View
Milkweed Vine
View