Moonflower (Ipomoea alba)
Care, watering, light and tips for Moonflower on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Convolvulaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 3 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Moonflower
Ipomoea alba, also known as Tropical White Morning-Glory or Moonflower, is a vigorous vine from the Convolvulaceae family, valued for its large, fragrant white flowers that unfurl at dusk. Its trumpet-shaped blooms, up to 15 cm in diameter, remain open throughout the night, attracting nocturnal pollinators and creating a captivating visual and aromatic display. It is ideal for pergolas, trellises, or climbing fences, where its nocturnal flowers can be fully enjoyed.
Native range
Tropical regions of the Americas, from southern Florida and Mexico to northern Argentina.
Care tips
It requires full sun for optimal flowering, though it can tolerate some partial shade in very hot climates. Watering should be regular and abundant, especially during dry periods and the blooming season, keeping the substrate consistently moist but not waterlogged. It prefers well-drained soils rich in organic matter. A common mistake is the lack of adequate support, which prevents the vine from developing fully and flowering profusely.
How to save a dying Moonflower
- Warning signs
- Yellowish or brown, wilted, lifeless leaves. Lack of flowering or unopened blooms.
- First aid
- Check watering: needs constant moisture but not waterlogged. Place in partial shade if sun is too strong. Lightly fertilize.
- What kills it
- Prolonged drought or constant waterlogging. Lack of support for climbing. Exposure to frost.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, it's a resilient plant. With proper watering and location, it recovers. Requires patience.