A fast, twining climber that opens a daily flush of large azure-blue to purple funnel flowers. Striking but highly invasive, it is a serious environmental weed that smothers bushland and gardens.
At a glance
- Plant type: Climber
- Mature size: 6 m H × 5 m W
- Aspect: full sun
- Water: regular, moderate watering
- Frost: tender
- Maintenance: high maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Blue Morning Glory
Botanically, Ipomoea indica is a fast-growing climber in the Convolvulaceae family. It reaches around 6 m tall and 5 m wide at maturity, with evergreen foliage. Blue and purple flowers appear for much of the year.
Where to grow Blue Morning Glory
Blue Morning Glory suits subtropical, warm-temperate and tropical climates and grows best in full sun. It is frost tender, so protect it from hard frosts or grow it in a sheltered spot or pot.
Soil & planting
Blue Morning Glory does best in loamy and free-draining soil. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool. For a screen, space plants about 3 m apart.
Watering & feeding
Blue Morning Glory does best with regular, moderate watering. A light spring feed is usually enough to maintain steady growth. Check moisture below the mulch during establishment and water thoroughly when needed rather than following a rigid schedule.
Pruning & care
Prune Blue Morning Glory after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. It clips well, so trim two or three times a year for a formal finish. Expect a high maintenance care workload once it is established.
Using Blue Morning Glory in the garden
Blue Morning Glory earns its place for a feature or specimen planting and a fast screen or informal hedge.
Companion planting & design
For easier irrigation and care, group Blue Morning Glory with species that also favour regular, moderate watering and subtropical climate. Leave enough room for the mature spread so neighbouring plants are not crowded out.
Good to know
Note that it is toxic to cats and dogs, so site it away from pets that chew. It is thornless and easy to handle. Be aware it can self-seed or spread into bushland in some regions — check it is not a declared weed in your area before planting.
Buying Blue Morning Glory
Plant Sale lists Blue Morning Glory as potted plants and advanced specimens. Catalogue forms are planning guidance until the Plant Sale team confirms live availability.
