Morning glory (Ipomoea)
Morning glory (Ipomoea): Sowing, planting and harvest calendar
Ornamental climbing morning glories belong to the genus Ipomoea, in the bindweed family, Convolvulaceae. They are known for funnel flowers and long stems that coil around nearby objects. The group includes annuals such as Ipomoea purpurea and frost-sensitive perennials such as Ipomoea indica. Their life span in a garden therefore depends on species and climate. The name covers several plants with differences in vigour and foliage.The stems twine: the stem itself winds around a neighbouring object, without relying on tendrils. This behaviour can quickly create foliage at height. Simple leaves are arranged alternately and connected to the stems by leaf stalks. Many are heart-shaped with a pointed tip, while others are lobed. Depending on species, leaves and shoots may carry small hairs, giving the foliage a soft or slightly rough texture. Leaf shape is one useful feature distinguishing the different forms.The corolla is formed from fused petals and widens from…