Morning Glory
ipomoea purpurea
Also known as: ["Common Morning Glory","Purple Morning Glory"]
Overview
A fast-growing, twining vine with large, heart-shaped leaves and showy, trumpet-shaped flowers that open in the morning and close by afternoon.
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 purpurea |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed, trellis, or 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 4–6 weeks during growing season.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if plant becomes leggy.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade but may flower less.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to direct sun to avoid scorching; provide afternoon shade in hot climates; ensure good air circulation if grown indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid placing near heat sources.
Watering
every 3–5 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-draining, fertile garden soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Warm conditions (65–85°F / 18–29°C); thrives in heat but may struggle below 50°F (10°C).
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from drafts; maintain consistent warmth for optimal growth.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 weeks during growing season, monthly otherwise
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; switch to a low-nitrogen formula if foliage grows excessively at the expense of flowers.
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 water or soil.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F / 21–24°C), humid, and bright but indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix or water; perlite or sand can improve drainage.
Hormone
Optional but can speed up rooting; rooting powder or gel is recommended.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 1–3 weeks; new growth appears in 4–6 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, water or soil.
Quick Tips
Use clean tools to prevent disease; change water regularly if using water propagation; maintain humidity with a plastic bag if needed.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips to encourage branching; cut stems just above a leaf node or lateral branch.
Pruning Plan
Prune to control size, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased stems.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp knife, or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune in early morning; remove dead or damaged growth; avoid over-pruning.
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 roots if necessary; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot annually or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for vigorous growth and flowering.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even saturation; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
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 for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; use a cactus or succulent mix as a base.
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 yellow or brown; risk of frost damage in temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location; cover with a frost cloth if outdoors; avoid overwatering in cool conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or scorch; flowers may drop prematurely; growth may become leggy.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute correctly; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with foliage.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats are susceptible to the ergoline alkaloids in Ipomoea purpurea seeds, which can result in gastrointestinal and neurological symptoms. The alkaloids may disrupt normal physiological processes in felines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe seeds of Ipomoea purpurea contain ergoline alkaloids that can cause mild to moderate gastrointestinal upset and neurological effects in dogs. These compounds can lead to discomfort and temporary physiological disturbances.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicIpomoea purpurea, commonly known as morning glory, contains ergoline alkaloids in its seeds, which can induce psychoactive effects and gastrointestinal distress. The alkaloids can disrupt neurotransmitter function and cause physiological disturbances.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Morning Glory toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should Morning Glory be watered?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Q: Why are my Morning Glory flowers not blooming?
A: Insufficient sunlight or excessive fertilizer can inhibit blooming; ensure the plant gets full sun and avoid over-fertilizing.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Convolvulaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 3–5 days during active |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
