Copper Morning Glory

ipomoea wrightii

Also known as: ["Copper Trumpet Vine","Wright's Morning Glory"]

Family: Convolvulaceae Genus: Ipomoea Category: Flowers

Overview

A vigorous, twining vine with showy, coppery-red trumpet-shaped flowers and heart-shaped leaves.

Benefits & Perks

["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","fragrant flowers"]

Botanical Classification

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

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed or container in warm, sunny area
  • 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 potting mix 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 necessary.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct sun but prefers filtered light.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to avoid scorching; place in a spot with morning sun and afternoon shade; adjust indoor placement to mimic natural light cycles.

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

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

easy

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid placing near west-facing windows in summer.

Watering

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

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering.

Soil

well-draining, sandy loam with moderate organic matter

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

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

Temperature

Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); can tolerate brief dips to 50°F (10°C) but thrives in warmth.

Avoid sudden temperature changes; maintain consistent warmth; protect from drafts.

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 a 4–6 inch cutting.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Place in medium.
  4. Keep moist and warm.

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

Environment

Warm, humid environment with indirect light.

Medium

Well-draining potting mix or water with occasional changes.

Hormone

Optional but can speed up rooting.

Timeline

Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; new growth in 6–8 weeks.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, water or soil medium.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain consistent moisture.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

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

Pruning Plan

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

Tools

Clean pruning shears or scissors.

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

One size larger pot; ensure it has drainage holes.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; 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

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 moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.

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

Water deeply when the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in cold; scorching or leaf curl in excessive heat.

Cold Stress

Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root damage if prolonged.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; use a space heater if necessary; avoid cold drafts.

Hot Stress

Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow due to excessive transpiration.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting; ensure adequate water supply.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; rinse pot periodically.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; reduce or stop in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

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

Wilting in Ipomoea wrightii can be caused by water stress, either due to under or overwatering, or root damage from pests or pathogens, leading to reduced water uptake.

Leaf spots on Ipomoea wrightii may be caused by fungal or bacterial infections, leading to defoliation and reduced photosynthetic capacity if left untreated.

Rotting in Ipomoea wrightii, particularly root or stem rot, is often associated with excessive moisture and poor drainage, leading to decay and potential plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Toxic

Ipomoea wrightii is toxic to cats, particularly its seeds and roots, which contain alkaloids that can cause severe neurological and gastrointestinal issues. Cats are highly sensitive to these compounds, which can lead to serious health complications.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy tremors seizures difficulty breathing
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds roots
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep the plant out of reach of cats. If ingestion is suspected, seek veterinary care immediately. Monitor the cat closely for any signs of distress.
Dogs
Toxic

The seeds and roots of Ipomoea wrightii are toxic to dogs, containing compounds that can cause severe neurological and gastrointestinal distress. The alkaloids can lead to significant physiological disturbances in canines.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy tremors seizures
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds roots
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep the plant away from dogs. If ingestion is suspected, contact a veterinarian immediately. Do not induce vomiting without professional guidance.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Ipomoea wrightii contains psychoactive compounds, primarily in its seeds and roots, which can induce hallucinations and other neurological effects. The plant's toxicity is due to the presence of ergoline alkaloids, which affect the central nervous system.

⚠️ Symptoms:
hallucinations nausea vomiting dizziness rapid heart rate
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds roots
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid ingestion of seeds and roots. Keep out of reach of children and pets. If accidental ingestion occurs, seek medical attention immediately.
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 wrightii toxic to pets?

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

Q: How often should I water Ipomoea wrightii?

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

Q: Does Ipomoea wrightii 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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