Moonflower is an annual vine that is related to morning glories. The flowers are very similar, but this vine produces only white flowers that are larger than those of morning glory. These flowers open at night.
Size and method of climbing:
Moonflower, an annual vine, can grow up to 10 feet long in one growing season. It is a twining vine. Twining vines climb by twisting their stems or leaf stalks around a support. This type of vine grows well on trellises, arbors, wires, or chain-link fences.
Native geographic location and habitat:
This plant is native to tropical America.
Leaf description:
The alternate leaves are heart-shaped and large, up to 6 to 8 inches wide.
Flower description:
Large, 5 to 6 inch white flowers resembling morning glories begin to open late in the day and remain open all night. Flowers are fragrant.
Fruit description:
The fruit are dried capsules and not ornamentally important.
Plant care:
Grows best in full sun and moist, well-drained soils. It is easy to grow from seed. Seeds should be scarified (nicked slightly) and then soak overnight before planting. Start seeds indoors about 4 to 6 weeks before the last frost. Transplant outside after the danger of frost has passed.
List of pests, diseases, and tolerances:
There are no serious pests for this vine.
