Contents
Description
Ipomoea Triloba, also known as Aiea Morning Glory or Little Three-Lobed Morning Glory, is a species of flowering plant in the family Convolvulaceae. It is native to the Hawaiian Islands and is commonly found in dry forests and shrublands, as well as disturbed areas. The plant has a vine-like growth habit and can reach up to 6 feet in length. It produces beautiful purple flowers that bloom from late spring to early summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Solanales |
| Family | Convolvulaceae |
| Genus | Ipomoea |
Appearance
The leaves of Ipomoea Triloba are small, lobed, and heart-shaped, with a length of up to 5 cm. The flowers are trumpet-shaped and have a diameter of approximately 2-3 cm. They are typically purple in color, but can also be pink or white. The plant has a vine-like growth habit and can reach up to 6 feet in length. The stems are thin and twine around other plants for support.
Care Guide
Ipomoea Triloba requires regular watering, especially during dry periods. The plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. Fertilization is recommended every 2-3 weeks during the growing season. The plant prefers full sun exposure, but can tolerate some shade. It is hardy in USDA zones 10-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Ipomoea Triloba is susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and rust. It is also vulnerable to pests such as spider mites, whiteflies, and aphids. Regular inspection and treatment with appropriate pesticides or fungicides can help keep the plant healthy.
Habitat
Ipomoea Triloba is native to the Hawaiian Islands and is commonly found in dry forests and shrublands, as well as disturbed areas. The plant prefers well-drained soils and can tolerate drought conditions. It is a popular ornamental plant and is often grown in gardens and landscapes for its beautiful flowers.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Ipomoea Triloba invasive?
A: No, the plant is not considered invasive.
Q: Can Ipomoea Triloba be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate the vine-like growth habit.
Q: How often should I fertilize Ipomoea Triloba?
A: Fertilization is recommended every 2-3 weeks during the growing season.
Q: Can Ipomoea Triloba tolerate frost?
A: No, the plant is not frost tolerant and should be protected during cold weather.
Related Plants
- Ipomoea Batatas (Sweet Potato Vine)
- Ipomoea Pes-Caprae (Beach Morning Glory)
- Ipomoea Purpurea (Common Morning Glory)
- Ipomoea Quamoclit (Cypress Vine)
References
- https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=IPTR3
- https://www.gardenia.net/plant/ipomoea-triloba-aiea-morning-glory
- https://www.hawaiianforest.com/plants/ipomoea-triloba/
