Moonflower
ipomoea alba
Also known as: ["Moonflower","Night-blooming convolvulus","Catharanthus roseus"]
Overview
A fast-growing, twining vine with large, fragrant white flowers that open at night.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","fast growing","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Solanales |
| Family: | Convolvulaceae |
| Genus: | Ipomoea |
| Botanical Name: | Ipomoea alba |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: trellis or fence for climbing, or large container with support
- Suitable For:
- 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, loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- 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 of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade but may produce fewer blooms.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates; ensure adequate ventilation if grown indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; provide shade during peak heat; use reflective surfaces to boost light in shaded areas.
Watering
every 3–5 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-draining, fertile soil with organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of potting soil and perlite; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Warm temperatures (65–85°F or 18–29°C); prefers stable conditions; sensitive to frost.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain humidity in dry, hot conditions.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Dilute fertilizer to half strength; avoid fertilizing newly planted or stressed plants; apply to moist soil to prevent root burn.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed; stem cuttings are faster and more reliable.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F or 21–24°C), humid, and bright but indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to speed up root development.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; plant can be transplanted after 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushier growth; cut back leggy stems to a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Prune to control size, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune in early morning or late evening; remove dead or crossing branches.
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
Gently remove plant; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for vigorous growth.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; handle roots gently; 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, targeting the root zone; allow water to penetrate deeply; ensure excess water drains 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 aeration with organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in cold; scorching or leaf curl in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Growth slows or halts; leaves may turn yellow or brown; risk of frost damage or death in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; cover with frost cloth if outdoors; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; flowers may fade quickly; growth may slow.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute correctly; apply during active growth; avoid contact with foliage.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during growing season; reduce or stop in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats are susceptible to mild to moderate toxicity from Ipomoea alba, particularly from seeds and roots. The tropane alkaloids can induce neurological and gastrointestinal disturbances.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Ipomoea alba seeds and roots can lead to mild to moderate toxicity due to tropane alkaloids. These compounds affect the central nervous system and gastrointestinal function.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicIpomoea alba, commonly known as moonflower, contains tropane alkaloids that can cause mild to moderate toxicity when ingested. The physiological impact includes disruption of the nervous system and gastrointestinal tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does the Moonflower bloom during the day?
A: No, it blooms at night and typically closes by morning.
Q: Is Ipomoea alba toxic to pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water Ipomoea alba?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Convolvulaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 3–5 days during active |
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