Morning Glory

Scientific Name: Ipomoea spp. (Common species include Ipomoea purpurea, Ipomoea tricolor)
Common Names: Morning Glory, Common Morning Glory, Tall Morning Glory

Native to: Tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas
Lighting Requirements: Full sun (requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight for best flowering)
Height: 6 to 15 feet (as a climbing vine)
Width: 6 to 10 feet, depending on space and support
Winter Look: Dies in Central Texas, often reseeds
Seasonal Interest: Vibrant, trumpet-shaped flowers in various colors, including blue, purple, pink, white, and bi-colored varieties; blooms from summer to early fall, opening in the morning and fading by afternoon
Drought Tolerance: Moderate; tolerates dry conditions once established but prefers consistent moisture for best growth
Soil Requirements: Well-drained, moderately fertile soil
pH Range: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.5)
Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 9–11; grown as an annual in cooler regions
Deer Resistance: Moderate; typically not a preferred food for deer
Attracts: Butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds
Toxicity: Toxic to humans and pets if ingested; seeds contain alkaloids that can cause hallucinations or poisoning
Potential Issues: Can become invasive in some regions; susceptible to pests such as aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies, as well as fungal diseases in humid conditions
Notes: Morning Glory is a delightful and fast-growing vine that's sure to brighten up your garden! With its vibrant, funnel-shaped flowers and lovely, heart-shaped leaves, this plant is a real showstopper. The blooms open in the morning and close by the afternoon, providing a beautiful display that changes throughout the day. 

People love using Morning Glory to brighten fences, trellises, arbors, and other structures because they grow quickly and bloom abundantly. It thrives in warm, sunny spots and is super easy to care for—just a little regular watering and occasional fertilization will keep it happy. There are many different varieties of Morning Glory, each offering a unique range of flower colors and patterns. While these flowers are lovely, it's important to remember that their seeds are toxic, so keep them out of reach of children and pets. With its charming appeal and breathtaking blooms, Morning Glory is a favorite for gardeners of all skill levels! 

There's a native morning glory here in Central Texas that's super cute but incredibly difficult to get rid of once it's in the garden. I've been pulling them for years and tend to freak out when one goes unnoticed because it will surely leave me tons of future weeding.