Morning Glory
ipomoea tricolor
Also known as: ["Heavenly Blue Morning Glory","Star of Bethlehem"]
Overview
A vigorous, twining vine with large, heart-shaped leaves and striking blue, funnel-shaped flowers that open in the morning and close by afternoon.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","fast growing","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Solanales |
| Family: | Convolvulaceae |
| Genus: | Ipomoea |
| Botanical Name: | Ipomoea tricolor |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed or container in a warm, sunny area
- Suitable For:
- 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, 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 necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); can tolerate partial shade but may flower less.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun in hot climates; ensure adequate airflow to prevent heat stress.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light indoors; provide support for climbing habit.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal diseases.
Soil
well-draining, fertile soil with added organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a cactus or succulent mix as a base; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Warm conditions (65–85°F / 18–29°C); sensitive to frost; thrives in tropical to subtropical climates.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain consistent warmth for best growth.
Fertilizing
every 2–4 weeks during active growth with balanced liquid fertilizer
Dilute fertilizer to half strength to avoid burning roots; fertilize after watering to prevent salt buildup; avoid fertilizing newly planted or stressed plants.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings; seeds (direct sow or start indoors).
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting below a node.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in medium or water.
- 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 indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix (e.g., perlite and peat moss) or water for initial rooting.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 1–3 weeks; new growth appears in 4–6 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; change water regularly if using water propagation.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips to encourage branching; cut stems just above a leaf node or bud.
Pruning Plan
Prune to control size, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruners or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune in early morning or evening; remove dead/diseased parts first; dispose of clippings properly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., 2 inches wider in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot annually or when roots fill the pot; supports vigorous growth and flowering.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting; place in appropriate light.
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 and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply when 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 soil is loose and airy.
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 in temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move plants indoors or to a protected location; use frost cloth or heat lamps in cold spells; avoid overwatering in cool conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; flowers may fade quickly; growth may become leggy.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture; ensure good airflow.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute correctly; apply during active growth; avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer (10-10-10) every 2–4 weeks during growing season; reduce or stop in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicIpomoea tricolor seeds are toxic to cats, containing ergoline alkaloids that can disrupt neurological and gastrointestinal functions. Cats are particularly sensitive to such compounds, which may result in severe symptoms even with small ingestions.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe seeds of Ipomoea tricolor are toxic to dogs due to the presence of ergoline alkaloids. These compounds can cause neurological and gastrointestinal distress, potentially leading to severe health complications if ingested in sufficient quantities.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicIpomoea tricolor contains ergoline alkaloids, particularly in its seeds, which can induce hallucinations, altered perception, and other neurological effects. These compounds can disrupt normal neurotransmitter function, leading to significant physiological and psychological disturbances.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are Morning Glory flowers fragrant?
A: No, Ipomoea tricolor flowers are not typically fragrant.
Q: Does this plant require full sun?
A: Yes, Morning Glory thrives in full sun for optimal flowering.
Q: Is Ipomoea tricolor invasive?
A: It can be aggressive in warm climates but is generally manageable with proper care.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Convolvulaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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