Asarifolia Morning Glory

ipomoea asarifolia

Also known as: ["Morning Glory","Asarifolia"]

Family: Convolvulaceae Genus: Ipomoea Category: Flowers

Overview

A twining vine in the Convolvulaceae family, known for its attractive flowers and foliage.

Benefits & Perks

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

Botanical Classification

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

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in warm climates, or container in cooler regions
  • Suitable For:
    Beginners 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 perlite or sand.
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:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade but may become leggy.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually if moving from shade to sun; protect from intense midday sun to prevent scorching; adjust indoor placement to mimic outdoor light conditions.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves (overwatering), wilting (underwatering), or stunted growth (poor soil quality).

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

easy

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh sunlight; avoid direct afternoon sun indoors.

Watering

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

Water thoroughly but allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.

Soil

well-draining, sandy loam with moderate organic content

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

Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; test pH if issues arise.

Temperature

Warm conditions (65–85°F/18–29°C); sensitive to frost; prefers stable temperatures year-round.

Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from cold drafts; maintain consistent warmth for best growth.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season

Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid overfertilizing.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings in water or soil.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take cutting.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Place in medium.
  4. Maintain moisture.
  5. Wait for roots.

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

Environment

Warm, humid, and bright indirect light.

Medium

Well-draining soil mix or water with occasional changes.

Hormone

Optional but can speed up rooting.

Timeline

Roots in 2–4 weeks; establish in 6–8 weeks.

Tools Needed

Pruners, rooting hormone (optional), container, water or soil medium.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node.

Pruning Plan

Encourage bushier growth and remove leggy stems; maintain shape and vigor.

Tools

Clean pruners or scissors.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune selectively; remove dead/damaged growth; shape as desired.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before active growth begins.

Pot Size

One size up (e.g., from 4-inch to 6-inch pot); ensure drainage holes.

Method

Use fresh well-draining soil; gently tease apart roots; place in slightly larger pot with drainage.

Suggestions

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

Checklist

Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; 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 even moisture reaches the root zone; water until it drains from the bottom, then discard excess to prevent waterlogging.

Pro Tip: Use room temperature water to avoid shocking the roots.
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 organic matter like compost for fertility.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or bud drop in extreme conditions.

Cold Stress

Growth slows or halts; leaves may turn yellow or brown; risk of frost damage below 50°F (10°C).

Solution: Move to a warmer location; use a heat mat if necessary; protect from drafts and cold windows.

Hot Stress

Leaf scorch, wilting, or drooping; may drop leaves to conserve water in extreme heat.

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

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; stop in dormant season.

Fertilizing Method

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

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Ipomoea asarifolia may indicate nutrient deficiencies, water stress, or pest infestations such as spider mites or aphids, which disrupt chlorophyll production.

Wilting in Ipomoea asarifolia is often a sign of water stress, either due to overwatering causing root rot or underwatering leading to dehydration and loss of turgor pressure in plant tissues.

Leaf spots on Ipomoea asarifolia may be caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, leading to necrotic lesions that can impair photosynthesis and weaken the plant if severe.

Rotting in Ipomoea asarifolia, particularly root or stem rot, is commonly caused by overwatering or poorly drained soil, leading to fungal infections that decompose plant tissues and can be fatal.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Toxic

Cats are susceptible to toxicity from Ipomoea asarifolia, with ingestion leading to gastrointestinal upset and potential neurological effects. The plant's toxic properties can cause significant distress in felines.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea depression tremors incoordination
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves seeds
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Ensure cats cannot access the plant. Contact a veterinarian if ingestion is suspected.
Dogs
Toxic

Ingestion of Ipomoea asarifolia by dogs can result in toxic effects, primarily affecting the gastrointestinal and nervous systems. The plant's toxic compounds can lead to severe discomfort and potential systemic issues.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy loss of appetite tremors
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves seeds
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep the plant away from dogs. If ingestion is suspected, seek veterinary attention immediately.
Humans
Toxic

Ipomoea asarifolia contains toxic compounds that can cause significant physiological effects upon ingestion. The plant's leaves and seeds are particularly hazardous, leading to gastrointestinal distress and potential systemic toxicity.

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

if eaten

Avoid ingestion of any part of the plant. Keep out of reach of 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 asarifolia toxic to pets?

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

Q: How often should I water Ipomoea asarifolia?

A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.

Q: Does Ipomoea asarifolia 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: ["beginners","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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