Ipomoea lobata
Spanish flag
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 (12in) 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 10°C (50°F).
How to care for Ipomoea lobata:
Ipomoea thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. Make sure there is adequate support for it to climb, plant it outside once all risk of frost has passed. Water freely while in growth and apply a liquid fertiliser at monthly intervals.
Prune lightly to encourage bushy growth and remove faded flowers to prolong blooming. If it is not going to be overwintered in a warm place, cut it back to ground level after frost and start again with a new plant the following spring.
Prune lightly to encourage bushy growth and remove faded flowers to prolong blooming. If it is not going to be overwintered in a warm place, cut it back to ground level after 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 3mm (0.1in) deep into small pots filled with a seed and cuttings compost. Keep them at around 20°C (68°F) 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.
Flowering period:
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Eventual height:
3m
Eventual spread:
1m
Position:
Full sun
Rate of growth:
Fast-growing
Soil:
Moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil
Hardiness:
Frost tender
-
Harmful if eaten
approx 20 seeds
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