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Description
Ipomoea Littoralis, commonly known as the Coastal Morning Glory, is a perennial flowering plant that belongs to the family Convolvulaceae. It is native to coastal regions in tropical and subtropical areas around the world, including Africa, Asia, Australia, and the Americas. The plant is known for its beautiful trumpet-shaped flowers that bloom in shades of pink, purple, or white. The flowers open in the morning and close in the afternoon, hence the name “morning glory.”
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Solanales |
| Family | Convolvulaceae |
| Genus | Ipomoea |
Appearance
The Coastal Morning Glory is a fast-growing plant that can reach up to 6 feet in height and spread up to 3 feet wide. It has heart-shaped leaves that are green in color and can grow up to 6 inches long. The flowers are trumpet-shaped, approximately 2 inches wide, and bloom in clusters. The colors of the flowers vary from pink, purple, or white. The plant produces a capsule fruit that contains four seeds.
Care Guide
The Coastal Morning Glory is a low-maintenance plant that can be grown in containers or directly in the ground. Here are some care tips:
- Water: The plant prefers well-draining soil and needs regular watering. Avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot.
- Fertilization: The plant benefits from regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.0-6.8. Adding organic matter to the soil can improve its quality.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun or partial shade. It can tolerate high temperatures but needs protection from strong winds.
- Hardiness Zones: The Coastal Morning Glory is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Coastal Morning Glory is generally pest and disease-resistant. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites, aphids, and whiteflies. Overwatering can also lead to root rot and fungal diseases. To prevent these issues, ensure proper watering and drainage and keep the plant healthy with regular fertilization.
Habitat
The Coastal Morning Glory is native to coastal regions in tropical and subtropical areas around the world. It grows in sandy or rocky soils and can tolerate salt spray and high humidity. The plant is commonly found near beaches, dunes, and mangrove swamps.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Coastal Morning Glory be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown indoors in a well-lit area with access to natural light or under grow lights.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Coastal Morning Glory?
A: The plant benefits from regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season, approximately every 2-3 weeks.
Q: How do I propagate my Coastal Morning Glory?
A: The plant can be propagated by taking stem cuttings and rooting them in water or soil. It can also be propagated by seed.
Q: Can the Coastal Morning Glory tolerate salt spray?
A: Yes, the plant is salt-tolerant and can grow in coastal areas with salt spray.
Related Plants
- Ipomoea pes-caprae (Beach Morning Glory)
- Ipomoea indica (Blue Morning Glory)
- Ipomoea batatas (Sweet Potato Vine)
- Ipomoea tricolor (Heavenly Blue Morning Glory)
References
- https://www.plantopedia.com/ipomoea-littoralis/
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/vines/morning-glory/growing-coastal-morning-glories.htm
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/vines/morning-glory/coastal-morning-glory.htm
- https://worldofsucculents.com/ipomoea-littoralis-coastal-morning-glory/
