Moonflower (Ipomoea alba) is a captivating night-blooming vine known for its large, fragrant white flowers that reach up to 6 inches across. These blossoms open at dusk, filling the evening air with a sweet, powerful perfume, making Moonflower a perfect choice for a night or fragrance garden. This vigorous annual vine can grow over 10 feet in a single season, providing a lush, green backdrop that bursts into bloom each evening. Ideal for small spaces, Moonflowers can be trained to climb trellises, obelisks, or window frames, making them perfect for urban gardens, containers, or window boxes. These night-blooming beauties also attract moths and other night pollinators, adding life to your garden after dark.
If you're looking for a plant that offers maximum rewards with minimal effort, Moonflower is an excellent choice. Closely related to the morning glory (Ipomoea purpurea), Moonflower shares the same easy-growing nature and heart-shaped leaves. Although technically a tender perennial, it is grown as an annual in cooler climates.
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• growing instructions included
• Regular testing is conducted to uphold the highest germination standards, all the while employing appropriate seed storage techniques.
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* DIRECTIONS *
Common Names: Moonflower, Moon Vine, Tropical White Morning Glory
Latin Name: Ipomoea alba
Type: Flowering Vine
Life Cycle: Annual (perennial in tropical climates)
USDA Zones: 9 - 11 (grown as an annual in cooler zones)
Stratification: Soak seeds in water for 24 hours before planting
Germination Ease: Moderate
Sunlight: Full Sun to Partial Shade
Moisture: Prefers consistently moist, well-drained soil
Soil: Rich, well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5
Height: 10-15 feet
Spread: 3-6 feet
Color: Pure white flowers with a subtle fragrance
Bloom Season: Late summer to fall
Companion Plants: Works well with night-blooming plants like evening primrose and four o’clocks. Attracts night pollinators to your garden.
Climate Adaptability: Thrives in warm, humid climates but can be grown as an annual in cooler regions
~ Sowing ~
When to Start Inside: Start seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before the last expected frost date.
When to Start Outside: Direct sow seeds in the garden after the last frost when the soil has warmed.
Sowing Instructions: Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep in well-drained soil.
Planting Depth: Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep.
Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged until germination occurs.
Light and Temperature: Moonflowers prefer full sun and warm temperatures, ideally between 70-85°F (21-29°C).
Germination: Seeds typically germinate in 7-14 days under optimal conditions.
~ Transplanting Seedlings Outdoors ~
Timing: Transplant seedlings outdoors after the danger of frost has passed and when they have developed at least two sets of true leaves.
Location: Choose a sunny to partially shaded location with well-drained soil.
Spacing: Space plants 12-18 inches apart to allow for adequate air circulation and growth.
Transplanting: Handle seedlings carefully to avoid disturbing their roots. Water well after transplanting to help establish the plants.
~ Growing ~
Watering: Water regularly to maintain consistent soil moisture, especially during dry periods.
Fertilizing: Apply a balanced fertilizer or compost at planting time and again as the plants begin to flower.
Pest and Disease Management: Moonflowers are generally pest-resistant but may attract pests like aphids. Monitor plants regularly and use organic pest control methods if necessary.
Maintenance: Provide support for the vines to climb, such as a trellis, arbor, or fence. Prune back excess growth to maintain shape and encourage more blooms.
~ Harvesting ~
When to Harvest: Enjoy Moonflowers when they are fully open in the evening. Harvest for fragrance or visual enjoyment; they are not typically used as cut flowers.
How to Harvest: Harvest flowers in the evening when they are fully open, and display immediately for the best effect.
Drying and Storing: Not typically dried; enjoy fresh blooms for their beauty and fragrance.
~ Seed Saving ~
Allow a few flowers to go to seed. Once the seed pods have dried on the plant, collect the seeds and store them in a cool, dry place for future planting.
~ Additional Information ~
Forage for Pollinators: Moonflowers attract night-flying pollinators like moths.
Origin: Native to tropical and subtropical regions, including Central and South America.
Nomenclature: The name "Ipomoea" is derived from the Greek words "ips" meaning worm and "homoios" meaning similar, referencing the plant's twining habit. The species name "alba" means white, referring to the flower color.
History: Moonflowers have been cultivated for centuries for their enchanting night-blooming flowers and sweet fragrance. They are often planted near porches or patios to enjoy their blooms on warm summer nights.
Climate Adaptability: Moonflowers thrive in warm, humid climates and can be grown as an annual in cooler regions.
