Swamp Morning Glory
Ipomoea aquaticafam. Convolvulaceae
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Pl. AB92 — Ipomoea aquatica
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IOverview
Overview
Swamp Morning Glory (Ipomoea aquatica) is a vine and herb native to Guatemala, thriving in moist or wet habitats with light sandy, medium, or heavy clay soils. This plant prefers full sun and grows up to 0.5 meters tall. Known for its edible leaves, roots, and shoots, it can be both an ornamental addition and a valuable food source. One distinctive feature is its ability to adapt as either an annual or perennial, depending on the climate, making it versatile in various growing conditions from zones 7-12.
Quick answers
What is Swamp Morning Glory?
Swamp Morning Glory (Ipomoea aquatica) is a vine and herb native to Guatemala, thriving in moist or wet habitats with light sandy, medium, or heavy clay soils. This plant prefers full sun and grows up to 0.5 meters tall.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Swamp Morning Glory thrives in full sun and requires moist to wet conditions, making it suitable for areas with heavy or clay soil as well as lighter sandy soils. It can grow up to 0.5 meters tall and is either an annual or perennial, depending on the climate (hardy in zones 7-12). For cultivation, ensure the soil remains consistently damp; regular watering will help maintain its health. Propagate via seeds for easy growth. Enjoy its edible leaves, shoots, and roots.
Light
Full sun
Water
Moist, Wet, Water
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
7-12
Life cycle
Annual, Perennial
Habit
Vine, Forb/herb
Mature size
0.5 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Swamp Morning Glory for the first time
7steps
Start with simple soil and basic care for Swamp Morning Glory.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds or seedlings, a container or garden bed, potting mix if using containers.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost when temperatures are consistently above 10°C (50°F).
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use a well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5, ensuring it's moist but not waterlogged.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds in the garden once the soil is warm, or start seedlings indoors about 4 weeks before planting out.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep the soil consistently moist and provide light shade to prevent sunburn. Water daily until plants are established.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water regularly, especially during dry spells, ensuring the soil stays moist but not soggy. Provide support for vines to climb.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune occasionally to encourage bushier growth and remove any dead or yellowing leaves.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:LeavesRootShoots
Edible uses: Swamp Morning Glory (Ipomoea aquatica) is edible and can be consumed in various forms. The leaves, shoots, and roots are typically prepared by boiling or steaming before consumption. SKIP
Other uses:Animal feedSoil reclamation
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
30 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
30 native · 0 introducedDistribution across4 continents· 30 native
Asia5 regions
native (5)BangladeshCambodiaChinaIndiaLaos
Americas1 region
native (1)Guatemala
Africa13 regions
native (13)AngolaBotswanaBurundiCameroonChadComorosCôte d'IvoireEritreaEthiopiaGabonGhanaGuineaKenya
Oceania1 region
native (1)Fiji
Broader regions
native:Jawa, Caprivi Strip, Gulf States, Borneo, Caroline Is., Central African Repu, Congo, Gilbert Is.
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
7 related
See also
7 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Convolvulaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Convolvulaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
Explore further
Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
XII
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