Genus guide
Ipomoea — 23 species
Part of the Morning glories & sweet potato vine family (Convolvulaceae)
Ipomoea is a wide-ranging genus of around 500 species spanning ornamental morning glories, the edible sweet potato, and vigorous tropical climbers. Most grow fast in full sun — at least six to eight hours of direct light daily — and prefer moderately fertile, well-drained soil that dries slightly between deep, infrequent waterings; established plants are surprisingly drought-tolerant. Toxicity varies across the genus: morning glory species (such as Heavenly Blue and Japanese morning glory) contain indole alkaloids harmful to cats and dogs, while sweet potato vine is listed as non-toxic by the ASPCA. Check each species before buying if you have pets.
All Ipomoea species we cover
- Beauregard Sweet Potato
- Blue dawn flower
- Blue Morning Glory
- Cardinal climber
- Heavenly blue morning glory
- Ipomoea batatas 'Blackie'
- Ipomoea lobata
- Ipomoea nil 'Scarlett O'Hara'
- Ipomoea purpurea
- Ipomoea quamoclit
- Ipomoea tricolor 'Heavenly Blue'
- Ivyleaf morning glory
- Japanese morning glory
- Japanese Sweet Potato
- Jewel Sweet Potato
- Moonflower
- Okinawan Sweet Potato
- Purple Sweet Potato
- Red morning glory
- Sweet potato
- Sweetpotato
- Water Spinach 'Bangkok Large Leaf'
- Water Spinach 'Pak Boong'
Ipomoea — frequently asked questions
Are Ipomoea plants toxic to cats and dogs?
Most Ipomoea are not pet-safe. Of the 23 Ipomoea species in the Growli library, 17 (74%) carry a toxic or mildly-toxic ASPCA classification and 6 are pet-safe. Always confirm the exact species on its pet-safety page before trusting it around cats or dogs.
How much light do Ipomoea plants need?
Most Ipomoea do best in direct sun. If yours stretches toward the window or loses its variegation it wants more light; scorched or bleached leaves mean it is getting too much direct sun.
Are Ipomoea easy to care for?
Some Ipomoea suit more experienced growers — several want strong light, sharp drainage or a specific seasonal rhythm. Check the individual species page for the exact regime.
How many Ipomoea varieties are there?
Growli's care library covers 23 Ipomoea species and varieties — browse them all above. They share a similar light, water and soil pattern, so once you learn one Ipomoea, the rest follow closely.
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