Ipomoea obscura

Ipomoea obscura, commonly known as the obscure morning glory, is a species of flowering plant in the family Convolvulaceae. Native to tropical regions of Asia and Africa, it has been introduced to other parts of the world as an ornamental plant. This plant typically grows as a vine or climbing shrub, featuring heart-shaped leaves and small white or pinkish flowers that bloom in clusters. These flowers are followed by small capsules containing black seeds, which are dispersed by wind or animals. Ipomoea obscura is notable for its medicinal properties and has been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments such as fever, coughs, asthma, and skin diseases. The plant contains several bioactive compounds, including alkaloids, flavonoids, and saponins, which possess antioxidant properties. The plant thrives in well-drained soil with full sun exposure but can also tolerate partial shade. It can be propagated through seeds or stem cuttings during the spring. Although Ipomoea obscura is not considered invasive in most areas outside its native range, it should be monitored carefully due to its potential to spread rapidly under favorable conditions.

Characteristics

Plant Type

Herb, Vine

Life Cycle

Perennial

Genus

Ipomoea

Family

Convolvulaceae

Hardiness Zone

10

Mature Height

3.05 m

Mature Spread

0.91 m to 3.05 m

Leaf Color

Green

Leaf Type

Evergreen

Flower Color

White

Flower Size

2.54 cm

Bloom Time

All year round

Planting Time

Spring, Summer, Autumn

Harvest Time

All year round

Native Area

Sri Lanka, Burkina Faso, Egypt, India, Malaysia, Angola, Namibia, Madagascar, Eritrea, Nigeria, Yemen, Fiji, Guinea-Bissau, Niger, Kenya, Benin, Uganda, Tanzania, Zimbabwe, Sierra Leone, Indonesia, Cambodia, Cameroon, Liberia, Mozambique, Oman, Ghana, Ethiopia, Botswana, Congo, Nepal, Saudi Arabia, Malawi, Central African Republic, South Africa, Zambia, Sudan, Philippines, Mauritania, Laos, Bangladesh, Chad, China, Vietnam, Myanmar, Togo, Senegal, Eswatini, Singapore, Côte d'Ivoire, Gambia, Thailand

Tags (4)

Common Names (7)