Morning glory, common morning glory, purple morning glory, tall morning glory
Ipomoea purpurea
🌿 Morphology
🌞 Growing conditions
🌍 Origin and family
🌾 Uses
Warning: Despite the care taken in writing this sheet, it is essential to cross-reference sources before using or consuming any plant. When in doubt, consult a qualified professional
Permaculture uses
Morning glory seeds are edible but contain LSA, a mild hallucinogen, and should be consumed sparingly. The plant is primarily used as an ornamental vine providing quick cover for fences, trellises, and walls. It attracts pollinators. In permaculture systems, it can be used as a dynamic accumulator, drawing nutrients from the soil, though it may become invasive. Certain cultivars are bred for specific flower colors and patterns.
Permapeople description
Ipomoea purpurea is a species of Ipomoea that is cultivated as a garden plant. It is an annual plant that grows to 2–3 m tall, with heart-shaped leaves and trumpet-shaped flowers that are typically purple, pink, or white.
Botanical description
Ipomoea purpurea is an annual or short-lived perennial climbing plant with heart-shaped leaves and trumpet-shaped flowers that are typically purple, pink, or white with a white or yellow throat. The stems can reach several meters in length, twining around supports. The leaves are alternate and range from 5 to 15 cm long. The flowers open in the morning and close in the afternoon, hence the name 'morning glory'. The fruit is a capsule containing several dark seeds.
Companion planting
Morning glory can be grown alongside corn, sunflowers, or other tall plants that can act as a trellis. Due to its vigorous growth and potential invasiveness, it should not be planted near delicate plants or in areas where it could smother other vegetation. Avoid planting near crops susceptible to vine strangulation.
Propagation methods
Morning glory is primarily propagated by seed. Seeds can be scarified or soaked in water before planting to improve germination rates. Cuttings can also be used, although this method is less common. Self-seeding is a frequent occurrence, often leading to the plant's spread.
History and traditions
Morning glory has been cultivated for ornamental purposes for centuries, originating in Mexico and Central America. In some cultures, it has been used medicinally, although this is less common now due to the presence of LSA in the seeds. Certain varieties are used in traditional Mexican cultures, where the seeds are consumed for spiritual or hallucinogenic purposes in rituals. Its popularity as a garden plant spread globally, leading to its naturalization in many regions.
Usage calendar
Sowing: Spring. Flowering: Summer to Fall. Seed Harvest: Fall. Pruning (if needed): Late Winter or Early Spring.