ivy-leaved morning glory
ipomoea hederacea
Also known as: ["ivy morning glory","common ivy-leaved morning glory"]
Overview
A climbing vine with heart-shaped leaves and funnel-shaped flowers, often considered an invasive weed in agricultural settings.
Benefits & Perks
["fast growing","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Solanales |
| Family: | Convolvulaceae |
| Genus: | Ipomoea |
| Botanical Name: | Ipomoea hederacea |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden beds, trellises, or containers with support for climbing
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Well-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Rich, well-draining loam; amended with compost for fertility.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed; after flowering or when vines become overgrown.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to control spread.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day) for vigorous growth; tolerate partial shade but may produce fewer flowers.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate seedlings gradually to full sun to prevent scorching; provide shade during extreme heat; rotate pots for even light exposure.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Avoid direct midday sun in hot climates; use reflective surfaces to boost light indoors.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, more frequent in hot or dry conditions
Water at the base to avoid foliage wetting; ensure soil dries between waterings; adjust based on weather and growth stage.
Soil
well-drained, moderately fertile soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; maintain consistent moisture; enrich with compost annually.
Temperature
Warm conditions (65–85°F / 18–29°C); sensitive to frost; thrive in summer heat.
Protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in heat; adjust watering with temperature.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; stop feeding when flowering begins to avoid leggy growth.
Propagation
Methods
Seed or stem cuttings; seeds are the most common method for Ipomoea hederacea.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep.
- Keep moist.
- Or take 4–6 inch cuttings, remove lower leaves, and place in medium.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when temperatures are warm and growth is active.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F / 21–24°C), high humidity, and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining seed starting mix or perlite and peat moss for cuttings.
Hormone
Not necessary for seeds; rooting hormone can aid stem cuttings.
Timeline
Seeds germinate in 7–14 days; cuttings root in 2–4 weeks.
Tools Needed
Seed trays, pots, pruners, rooting hormone (optional), misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use bottom heat for faster germination; keep cuttings out of direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips to encourage bushier growth; trim vines to manage size.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; remove dead or damaged growth to maintain health and appearance.
Tools
Clean pruners or scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead/damaged parts; shape as desired; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot with drainage holes; ensure it accommodates root spread.
Method
Gently remove plant, trim roots if necessary, place in new pot with fresh soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Not typically needed for vining Ipomoea; container plants may need repotting every 2–3 years if root-bound.
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; allow drainage; adjust seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, ensuring the root zone is moistened but not waterlogged; water early in the day to minimize evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add organic matter like compost; use perlite or sand for drainage; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves (cold stress); leaf scorch, stunted growth (heat stress).
Cold Stress
Growth halts; leaves may turn purple or black; risk of death in freezing temperatures.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; cover outdoor plants; avoid overwatering in cold.
Hot Stress
Leaf edges burn, flowers drop, growth slows; may wilt despite soil moisture.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize during active growth; cease in dormancy.
Fertilizing Method
Balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal discomfort if they consume parts of Ipomoea hederacea. The alkaloids can lead to mild digestive issues.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe alkaloids present in Ipomoea hederacea can cause mild gastrointestinal upset in dogs if ingested. The effects are typically not severe but should be monitored.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicIpomoea hederacea contains alkaloids that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and other mild symptoms upon ingestion. The physiological impact is generally limited to the digestive system.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Ipomoea hederacea toxic to pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How does this plant grow?
A: It is a climbing vine that spreads rapidly via seeds and stems.
Q: Is it suitable for ornamental use?
A: While it can be used ornamentally, it is often considered a weed due to its invasive nature.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Convolvulaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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