Ipomoea lobata
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This fast-growing climber quickly forms an attractive screen of relatively large, distinctly lobed foliage, but it's for the abundance of tubular...
approx 20 seeds
£2.25
In stock (shipped within 2-3 working days)
1
Plant description
This fast-growing climber quickly forms an attractive screen of relatively large, distinctly lobed foliage, but it's for the abundance of tubular summer flowers that this plant is most highly prized. Initially these are red, but as they age they turn orange, then yellow, and then finally creamy white. Forming in one-sided sprays that can grow to 30cm in length, there are usually red, orange and yellow blooms at the same time, so they really put on a good display, which lasts for several months throughout summer. It's most often grown as an annual, however it is possible to keep it in a pot and overwinter it where temperatures do not dip below 10C.
Eventual height & spread
Flowering period
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Plant features
Position
Full sun
Rate of growth
Fast-growing
Soil
Moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil
Hardiness
Frost tender
How to care for Ipomoea lobata:
Make sure there is adequate support for it to climb up, but do not plant it outside until all risk of frost has passed. Water freely when in growth and apply a liquid fertiliser at monthly intervals. If it is not going to be overwintered in a warm place, cut it back to ground level after it is hit by a frost and start again with a new plant the following spring.
Sowing instructions:
Soak the seeds in water for 24 hours before sowing to soften them up and then plant 2.5mm deep into small pots filled with a seed and cuttings compost. Keep them at around 20°C and water when necessary. Thin out carefully when large enough to handle taking care not to damage the roots and harden off before planting out, once acclimatised after risk of frost has passed. Provide adequate support for it to scramble up.
Warning
Harmful if eaten
