Description of Ipomoea involucrata P.Beauv.
Ipomoea involucrata P.Beauv., also known as the morning glory tree or the iron leaf morning glory, is a species of plant within the family Convolvulaceae. It is native to tropical regions of Africa, Asia, and the Americas.
General appearance of Ipomoea involucrata P.Beauv.
The morning glory tree is a perennial climbing shrub with woody stems that can grow up to 5 meters in height. Its leaves are alternate, simple, and ovate, measuring approximately 5-12 cm in length and 4-9 cm in width. The plant produces funnel-shaped flowers that are pink, purple, or white in color and approximately 3-6 cm in diameter. The fruit of the plant is a capsule containing numerous small black seeds.
Common uses of Ipomoea involucrata P.Beauv.
The morning glory tree has several traditional uses in folk medicine. The plant contains several bioactive compounds, including alkaloids, terpenoids, and flavonoids, which have been found to possess anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antioxidant properties. Extracts from the plant have been used to treat fever, headaches, toothaches, and inflammation in traditional medicine. In addition, the plant has been found to have antidiabetic and hepatoprotective effects in animal studies.
Other than its medicinal uses, Ipomoea involucrata P.Beauv. is also used for ornamental purposes and as a fencing material in some regions. The plant is a fast-growing climber with attractive flowers and foliage and can be grown as an ornamental plant in gardens or on trellises.
Growth conditions of Ipomoea involucrata P. Beauv.
Ipomoea involucrata P. Beauv. is commonly known as "The silver morning glory" and is a climbing plant that belongs to the family Convolvulaceae. It is native to tropical and subtropical regions of Africa and Asia. It is widely grown as an ornamental plant for its beautiful silvery-grey leaves and attractive bell-shaped flowers. To grow an Ipomoea involucrata plant, the following growth conditions are required:
Light
The Ipomoea involucrata plant requires bright and indirect sunlight to thrive. Exposure to direct sunlight can cause the leaves to scorch and dry out. So, it is best to place the plant in a location where it can receive bright but indirect sunlight for at least 6 hours a day. If grown indoors, it can be placed near a window that faces east or west.
Temperature
The ideal temperature range for the Ipomoea involucrata plant is 20°C to 32°C. It is a tropical plant that cannot tolerate cold temperatures and frost. The plant should be protected from cool drafts and kept in a warm environment, especially during the winter months. If grown outdoors, the plant should be brought indoors during cold weather.
Soil
The Ipomoea involucrata plant can grow in a range of soils but prefers well-draining soil with a neutral pH range of 6.5 to 7.5. The soil should be rich in organic matter and should not be too dry or wet. A good potting mix can be created by combining equal parts of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite.
Overall, the Ipomoea involucrata P. Beauv. plant is easy to grow and care for as long as the right growth conditions are provided. With proper care, it can grow up to 6 feet tall and provide a stunning display of foliage and flowers.
Cultivation methods
Ipomoea involucrata P.Beauv. is a hardy plant that can grow in a variety of conditions. It thrives in well-draining soil with moderate fertility and prefers full sun exposure. Start by planting the seeds about 1 cm deep in warm soil. Once the seedlings emerge, thin them to allow for proper spacing between plants for optimal growth.
Watering needs
Ipomoea involucrata P.Beauv. requires moderate watering. Allow the top layer of soil to dry out before watering, and do not let the plant sit in water to avoid root rot. Water regularly during dry spells and reduce watering during rainy periods.
Fertilization
Ipomoea involucrata P.Beauv. benefits from regular fertilization. Use a balanced fertilizer at the beginning of the growing season, or twice a month for potted plants. Apply the fertilizer according to the manufacturer's instructions to prevent over-fertilization.
Pruning
Pruning Ipomoea involucrata P.Beauv. helps maintain a neat appearance and encourages bushier growth. Prune in early spring before new growth starts or in the fall after the plant has finished flowering. Remove any dead, damaged or crowded stems. Cut back the remaining stems to the desired height, leaving at least two nodes, or joints, on each stem. Pinch back the tips of the remaining stems to promote branching.
Propagation of Ipomoea involucrata P.Beauv.
Ipomoea involucrata P.Beauv. can be propagated through several methods such as:
Seeds
The most common method of propagation is through seeds. The seeds are collected from the dried fruit capsules of the plant. The seeds must be soaked in water for about 24 hours before sowing. The seeds are then sown in the soil and kept in a warm place with sufficient light. The seeds will germinate in 2-3 weeks, and the seedlings are ready for transplantation when they are about 4-6 inches tall.
Cuttings
Cuttings can also be used for propagation of Ipomoea involucrata P.Beauv. Cuttings of 6-8 inches length are taken from the mature vines in the spring or summer. The bottom leaves are removed, and the cuttings are planted in a well-draining potting mix. The cuttings must be kept moist and warm until they develop roots, which typically takes about 6-8 weeks. Once the roots have developed, the new plant can be transplanted to its permanent location.
Division
Division is another method of propagation of Ipomoea involucrata P.Beauv. This method involves dividing the plant into two or more sections, each with its roots and shoots. Division is typically done during the early spring or fall when the plant is dormant. The divided sections are then planted into new containers that contain well-draining potting soil. The plant must be kept moist for several weeks until the roots have established themselves.
Disease Management
Ipomoea involucrata P.Beauv. is susceptible to certain diseases that may affect its growth and overall health. To manage these diseases, it is essential to maintain good cultural practices such as proper watering, pruning, and fertilization, to improve the overall health and resistance of the plant. One disease that commonly affects Ipomoea involucrata P.Beauv. is the fungal disease known as leaf spot.
Leaf spot can be managed by removing infected leaves as soon as possible and maintaining proper spacing and airflow in between the plants. Fungicides may also be used in severe cases.
Pest Management
Various pests may also attack Ipomoea involucrata P.Beauv., which can hinder its growth and affect the yield of its flowers and fruits. To manage pests, proper identification is crucial so that the right management approach can be implemented.
One common pest that attacks Ipomoea involucrata P.Beauv. is the spider mite. Spider mites can be managed by spraying the leaves of the plant with a strong stream of water to remove them physically. In severe cases, pesticide sprays may be necessary.
Another pest that may attack the plants is aphids. To manage this pest, beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings can be introduced into the garden, or the plants can be sprayed with a mixture of water and soap or neem oil.
