Moonflower, Tropical white morning-glory

Ipomoea alba

Physical Characteristics

Ipomoea alba is an evergreen Perennial Climber growing to 10 m (32ft 10in) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 8. It is in leaf all year, in flower from July to August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

Pantropical.

Habitats

Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Seed Edible Uses: Young leaves and fleshy calyces - cooked. Steamed and eaten as a vegetable or used in curries, soups, stews etc[183]. They can also be dried for later use[183]. Seed - eaten when young[183].

Medicinal Uses

The whole herb is used in treating snakebite[266].

Known Hazards

None known