Morning Glory
Overview
The Morning Glory (Ipomoea purpurea) is a vibrant plant from the Convolvulaceae family, often grown for its striking heart-shaped leaves and radiant flowers, which vary from purple to white. Thriving in well-drained soils under full sunlight, this plant can be both an ornamental beauty and, in certain species, a culinary delight, though some forms are considered noxious weeds.
Characteristics
Known for its vibrant, trumpet-shaped flowers and heart-shaped leaves, thriving in full sunlight and requiring a supporting structure for growth.
Region
The Morning Glory plant is commonly found and grown in North America, as well as many other temperate and tropical world regions.
Natural Habitat
The Morning Glory plant is commonly found in fields, along roadsides, and in disturbed soils.
Cultivation
Thrives in full sunlight, requires consistently moist, well-drained soil.
Uses and Benefits
Versatile Uses and Health Benefits
Morning Glory offers both practical and nutritional advantages as a dual-purpose ornamental and edible plant. The tender shoots and leaves carry impressive nutritional value, containing significant amounts of iron, vitamin C, and protein4.
- Kitchen Applications:
– Steam young shoots and leaves for stir-fries
– Add fresh leaves to soups and broths
– Combine with garlic and oyster sauce for traditional Asian dishes - Wellness Benefits:
– Supports immune function through vitamin C content
– Provides plant-based iron for energy
– Offers fiber for digestive health
– Contains antioxidants that fight free radicals1 - Garden Benefits:
– Creates natural shade for heat-sensitive plants
– Attracts beneficial pollinators
– Controls soil erosion on slopes
– Provides quick coverage for unsightly areas
Growing Tip: For best culinary use, harvest young shoots and leaves in the morning when their nutrient content peaks. Regular harvesting encourages continuous new growth and prevents aggressive spreading.
Caution: While edible varieties are safe, always verify plant identification before consumption, as some ornamental Morning Glory varieties are not suitable for eating4.
Cultivation Tips
Essential Cultivation Tips for Morning Glory Success:
- Select a sunny spot with well-draining soil and prepare the ground by mixing in organic compost
- Nick seeds with sandpaper or soak overnight in warm water before planting to speed germination
- Plant seeds 1/4 inch deep and 6 inches apart after all frost danger has passed, or start indoors 4-6 weeks earlier
- Install climbing supports reaching 6-10 feet high – trellises, fences, or sturdy poles work well
- Water regularly to maintain even soil moisture, especially during flowering
- Avoid overfeeding – too much nitrogen promotes leafy growth at the expense of blooms
Key Growing Requirements:
- Soil pH: 6.0-6.8
- Temperature: 65-85°F (18-29°C)
- Spacing: 6 inches between plants
- Support height: 6-10 feet minimum
Pro Tips: Remove spent blooms regularly to extend flowering season. In zones 3-8, treat as an annual. Control spreading by removing seed heads before they mature. Watch for self-seeding in subsequent seasons. 1
For best results, position climbing supports at planting time to avoid disturbing roots later. Most varieties will bloom 10-12 weeks after sowing.
Companion Planting
Morning Glory makes an excellent garden companion when thoughtfully paired with other plants. Here are the key considerations for successful companion planting:
Beneficial Companions:
- Pole beans and peas – Share trellis structures while fixing nitrogen
- Determinate tomatoes – Utilize vertical space without overwhelming
- Nasturtiums – Attract pollinators and act as natural pest control
- Marigolds – Deter harmful nematodes from the soil
Plants to Avoid:
- Aggressive vining plants like cucumber or grape
- Tall sunflowers that compete for nutrients
- Other Morning Glory varieties that may cross-pollinate
For optimal growth, space companion plants at least 12 inches apart to prevent root competition. When sharing support structures, position Morning Glory on the north side to avoid shading shorter plants5.
Companion Planting Tips:
- Install sturdy trellises before planting to support multiple climbing species
- Rotate annual companions yearly to maintain soil health
- Monitor moisture levels as climbing plants have different water needs
- Prune aggressively if Morning Glory begins to overwhelm companions
Consider growing shorter ornamentals like alyssum or verbena at the base to create attractive ground cover while suppressing weeds. This layered approach maximizes garden space and creates a vibrant, sustainable growing environment.
Seasonal Considerations
Seasonal Growing Guide for Morning Glory
Morning Glory adapts to seasonal changes with distinct growth patterns throughout the year:
Spring (Planning & Planting)
- Begin indoor seed starting 6-8 weeks before final frost
- Maintain seedling temperature at 65-75°F (18-24°C)
- Transplant outdoor once soil reaches 60°F (16°C)
Summer (Peak Growth)
- Water deeply but infrequently to encourage deep root development
- Remove spent blooms to extend flowering period
- Monitor for vine growth and guide onto support structures
Fall (Maintenance & Collection)
- Collect mature seed pods when they turn brown and begin to crack 1
- Reduce watering as temperatures drop
- Consider allowing some vines to die back naturally for wildlife habitat
Winter (Dormancy)
- Remove dead vines from supports
- Store collected seeds in cool, dry place
- Plan next season’s growing location to prevent soil depletion
Climate Note: In zones 10-11, Morning Glory may grow as a perennial. In colder regions, treat as an annual and protect any desired overwintering plants from frost.
Remember to monitor local frost dates and adjust these seasonal guidelines according to your specific climate zone.
Issues and Troubleshooting
The Ipomoea purpurea struggles with various issues. Over or under-watering impacts growth and flowering. Too much sun scorches leaves while too little stunts blooms.
Pests like aphids and spider mites weaken the plant by sucking sap. Distorted, discolored foliage is a sign of infestation. Use organic pesticides or introduce natural predators like ladybugs.
Fungal diseases like powdery mildew and rust thrive in humidity. Improve air flow and limit leaf wetness to manage fungi. Regular inspections and proactive treatments prevent major problems1.
History and Folklore
Morning Glory flowers have enchanted cultures worldwide for centuries, weaving their way into rich traditions and folklore. In ancient Mesoamerica, the Aztecs and Mayans considered these blooms sacred, using the seeds in religious ceremonies and healing rituals. The flowers’ habit of opening at dawn earned them profound spiritual significance.
Japanese Cultural Impact
In Japan, Morning Glory (Asagao) cultivation became a refined art during the Edo period (1603-1868). The samurai class particularly cherished these flowers, seeing in their daily blooming and fading a poignant reflection of their own lives – beautiful yet fleeting. This symbolism evolved into an essential element of Japanese poetry and art.
The Victorians incorporated Morning Glory into their elaborate flower language, where it represented both devoted love and the ephemeral nature of affection. They often included these flowers in romantic bouquets and garden designs, though some viewed their vigorous growth as a metaphor for clinging love or attachment.
Chinese medicine has long valued Morning Glory for its therapeutic properties, while in European folklore, the plant was believed to offer protection against evil spirits 1.
References
1. Morning glory | Description & Species | Britannica, https://www.britannica.com/plant/morning-glory-plant
2. Morning Glory | Herbaceous Plant Finder | Comprehensive Landscape Plant, https://www.depts.ttu.edu/plantresources/Pages/directories/landscape-info-sheets/herbaceous-info/Ipomoea_purpurea.php
3. Family: Convolvulaceae — morning glory family – Go Botany, https://gobotany.nativeplanttrust.org/family/convolvulaceae/
4. Morning glory – Wikipedia, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Morning_glory
5. Ipomoea purpurea – Plant Finder – Missouri Botanical Garden, https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b754
Image Credit: Ralphs_Fotos
Image Credit: MabelAmber
Image Credit: Ray_Shrewsberry
Nicolas Duval
Nicolas is a passionate advocate for nature and the art of wildcrafting. His dedication shines through in Wildcraftia, a website he meticulously crafted to serve as a haven for nature enthusiasts worldwide. Driven by a deep appreciation for nature’s connection to humanity, Nicolas embarked on his journey in 2011 with SmokableHerbs, a platform showcasing his love for nature’s bounty. Building upon this foundation, he established Smokably, a thriving online store offering premium herbs and blends to a global audience.