Pocket BotanistPlant guide
Morning Glory.
Ipomoea
Pronounced ih-po-MEE-uh
Morning glories are beautiful, fast-growing vines known for their trumpet-shaped flowers that open in the morning light. They can add a vibrant splash of color to trellises, fences, and pergolas.
At a glance
- Care level
- Easy
- Plant type
- Annual vine
- Light
- Full sun
- Indoor light
- direct
- Mature size
- Varies by species, often up to 10 feet or more
- Growth rate
- fast
Care
Plant in well-draining soil and provide full sun. Water regularly, especially during dry spells, and support its climbing habit with a trellis or other structure.
- Soil
- Well-draining soil
- Soil pH
- Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0-7.0)
Safety
- People
- Seeds can be toxic; ingestion may cause vomiting and diarrhea.
- Pets
- Seeds can be toxic; ingestion may cause vomiting and diarrhea.
- Edibility
- Some species' seeds can be hallucinogenic and are toxic if ingested in large quantities.
How to identify it
- Trumpet-shaped flowers
- Vining growth habit
- Heart-shaped leaves
- Flowers open in morning
- Fast-growing vine
Grows well with
- Nasturtium — Nasturtiums can act as a trap crop for aphids, potentially diverting them from your morning glories.
- Marigold — Marigolds are known to deter some common garden pests with their scent.
Keep away from
- Aphids — Aphids can infest young shoots and leaves, weakening the plant.
- Spider Mites — Spider mites thrive in hot, dry conditions and can damage foliage.
Similar species
- Moonflower — Moonflowers are also in the Ipomoea genus and have large white flowers that open at night.
- Sweet Potato Vine — This is another popular ornamental member of the Ipomoea genus, grown for its colorful foliage.
Good to know
- The flowers typically close by the afternoon.
Is your morning glory looking unwell?
This page is a general guide. Pocket Botanist diagnoses problems from a photo of your actual plant, works out watering for your light and conditions, and reminds you when care is due.
This guide was generated with AI and checked against GBIF taxonomy. It is general information, not horticultural or veterinary advice. Read about how we build these guides.