Common Morning Glory, Tall morning-glory

Ipomoea purpurea

Physical Characteristics

Ipomoea purpurea is a ANNUAL CLIMBER growing to 2.5 m (8ft 2in) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7 and is not frost tender. It is in flower from July to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) 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

Central America - Mexico to the West Indies.

Habitats

Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal Uses

Anthelmintic Diuretic Hallucinogenic Laxative The seed is anthelmintic, diuretic and laxative[176]. It is used in the treatment of oedema, oliguria, ascariasis and constipation[176]. The seed contains small quantities of the hallucinogen LSD[200, 219]. This has been used medicinally in the treatment of various mental disorders.

Known Hazards

None known