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. Plant into well-prepared ground, firm the soil around the roots and water deeply to settle it in. For a screen, space plants about 3 m apart.
Watering & feeding
Blue Morning Glory is regular, moderate watering. A feed in spring with a balanced fertiliser keeps growth strong. In its first year, water deeply once or twice a week to settle the roots in, then taper off as it establishes.
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. Overall it is high maintenance.
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 a cohesive, low-care bed, pair Blue Morning Glory with other plants that enjoy the same regular, moderate watering and subtropical climate. Repeat it through a border to tie the planting together and give a sense of rhythm.
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. Stock isn't live yet — register your interest using the panel above and we'll email you the moment it lands.