Felder Rushing
Family
Convolvulaceae
Botanical Name
Ipomoea alba
Plant Common Name
Evening Glory, Moonflower
General Description
Moonflower is a heat-loving, tropical perennial vine that produces large, fragrant flowers that open in the evening, hence the common name, moonflower. Originally from the American tropics, this plant comfortably grows across the world's equatorial regions, though it is also easily grown as a tender perennial in temperate regions.
The vines climb by twining stems and are covered with large, green, heart-shaped leaves. These give way to huge white funnel-shaped flowers with butter yellow throats; occasionally blooms have pink hues. Moonflowers are sweetly fragrant, night-blooming and pollinated by moths.
Plant moonflower in full to partial sun and fertile, humus-rich, well-draining soil. This vine needs heat to produce its flowers, though it prefers afternoon shade in hot climates. Moonflower is easily grown from seed, but there are health concerns related to them, so keep them away from children. Give moonflower a substantial structure to climb on, such as a fence, arbor, or large trellis, and protect it from wind.
Characteristics
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AHS Heat Zone
12 - 10
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USDA Hardiness Zone
12 - 15
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Sunset Zone
H1, H2, 15, 16, 17, 23, 24
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Plant Type
Tender Perennial
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Sun Exposure
Full Sun, Partial Sun
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Height
10'-70' / 3.0m - 21.3m (20)
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Bloom Time
Indeterminate
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Native To
Mexico, Central America, South America
Growing Conditions
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Soil pH
Acidic, Neutral
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Soil Drainage
Well Drained
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Soil type
Loam
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Growth Rate
Very Fast
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Water Requirements
Average Water
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Habit
Vining/Climbing
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Seasonal Interest
Spring, Summer, Fall
Ornamental Features
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Flower Interest
Showy
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Flower Color
Light Yellow, Ivory
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Foliage Color (Spring)
Green
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Foliage Color (Summer)
Green
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Foliage Color (Fall)
Green
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Fragrant Flowers
Yes
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Fragrant Fruit
No
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Fragrant Foliage
No
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Bark or Stem Fragrant
No
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Flower Petal Number
Single
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Repeat Bloomer
Yes
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Showy Fruit
No
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Edible Fruit
No
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Showy Foliage
No
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Foliage Texture
Coarse
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Foliage Sheen
Glossy
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Evergreen
Yes
