Jamaica Moonseed

merremia umbellata

Also known as: ["Jamaica Moonseed","False Moonseed"]

Family: Convolvulaceae Genus: Merremia Category: Flowers

Overview

A climbing vine with lobed leaves and small, white flowers, native to tropical regions.

Benefits & Perks

["fast growing","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Solanales
Family: Convolvulaceae
Genus: Merremia
Botanical Name: Merremia umbellata

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed or container in warm, sunny area
  • Suitable For:
    Collectors & Enthusiasts Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–35°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; cactus mix can work well.
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 overgrown.
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 light; protect from intense sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil or drainage issues.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

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

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure proper drainage; adjust based on season and growth stage.

Soil

well-draining, sandy or loamy soil

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

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

Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; maintain stable warmth during active growth.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer

Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a balanced formula.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings in water or soil; seeds can also be used but require stratification for better germination.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a healthy cutting.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Place in medium.
  4. Keep moist and warm.
  5. Transplant once rooted.

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 soil mix or water; can use perlite or sand for better aeration.

Hormone

Optional but recommended for faster rooting.

Timeline

Roots may appear in 2–4 weeks; establish in new pot within 6–8 weeks.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining medium.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain humidity for faster rooting.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back tips for bushiness; cut back stems to a node for regrowth.

Pruning Plan

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

Tools

Clean pruning shears or scissors, gloves.

Checklist

Sanitize tools; prune during active growth; remove dead/diseased parts; shape as desired.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before the active growing season begins.

Pot Size

Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.

Suggestions

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

Checklist

Choose appropriate pot; prepare new soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.

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.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to direct water to the roots without wetting foliage.
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

Yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or bud drop in cold; wilting or leaf burn in excessive heat.

Cold Stress

Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root damage; prolonged cold may lead to death.

Solution: Keep plants away from drafts; provide a warm, stable environment; use grow lights if needed in winter.

Hot Stress

Excessive heat can cause wilting, leaf scorch, or dehydration, especially if combined with low humidity.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting or a humidifier; ensure consistent watering.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check growth stage; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; 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

Yellow leaves in Merremia umbellata may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting the plant's photosynthetic efficiency and overall health.

Wilting in Merremia umbellata can result from water stress, either due to drought or overwatering, leading to reduced turgor pressure and impaired nutrient uptake.

Leaf spots on Merremia umbellata may be caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, leading to reduced photosynthesis and potential leaf drop.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, can occur in Merremia umbellata due to excessive moisture or fungal infections, causing decay and potentially plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Toxic

Cats are susceptible to toxicity from Merremia umbellata, particularly from its seeds and roots. The plant can cause serious health issues affecting the digestive and nervous systems.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy tremors loss of coordination
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds roots
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Ensure the plant is inaccessible to cats. Contact a veterinarian promptly if ingestion is suspected.
Dogs
Toxic

Ingestion of Merremia umbellata by dogs can lead to severe toxicity, affecting the gastrointestinal and nervous systems. The seeds and roots are the most toxic parts.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy loss of appetite abdominal pain
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds roots
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep the plant out of reach of dogs. Seek veterinary attention immediately if ingestion is suspected.
Humans
Toxic

Merremia umbellata contains toxic compounds that can cause significant physiological disturbances upon ingestion. The plant's seeds and roots are particularly hazardous, leading to gastrointestinal and neurological effects.

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

if eaten

Avoid ingestion of any parts of the plant. 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 Merremia umbellata toxic to pets?

A: Reliable information on toxicity to pets is not available.

Q: How should I care for Merremia umbellata?

A: Provide moderate sunlight, well-draining soil, and regular watering.

Q: Does Merremia umbellata attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.

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

Shankhpushpi
View
Sea Bindweed
View
Ground Morning Glory
View
Pink Morning Glory
View