Ipomoea violacea PURPLE MORNING GLORY (15 seeds)

Purple Ipomoea, also known as Volubilis, is a vigorous, evergreen perennial herbaceous vine belonging to the Convolvulaceae family. Native to East Asia (specifically China and Japan), it is a highly robust climber that grows very rapidly, adding several meters of length per year and reaching heights of up to 4 meters.

Its stems are thick, trailing or climbing, with a flexible texture and light green color. They allow the plant to twine around supports or spread across the ground. The foliage consists of large, heart-shaped leaves with wavy edges. These green leaves are thick and hairy, giving them a velvety texture.

The flowering is spectacular, featuring large trumpet-shaped flowers of a pale violet hue. The blooms open in the evening or at twilight and release a pleasant fragrance to attract nocturnal pollinators.

Purple Morning Glory seeds (Ipomoea violacea) are black, shaped like a quarter-sphere, and measure 5 to 6 millimeters in length. They are contained in capsules that tear open at maturity, usually releasing 4 seeds per capsule.

- Uses:

- Germination and Sowing:

• The best period to sow Purple Morning Glory is in April or May.
• Very lightly sand the seeds with sandpaper, being careful not to damage the cotyledon.
• Soak them in lukewarm water for 6 hours.
• Bury the seeds 0.5 cm deep in a seedling potting soil rich in organic matter or in finely sieved, pre-moistened soil.
• Water thoroughly upon planting using a hand sprayer.
• Place the culture in a warm spot at a temperature of approximately 25°C.
• Germination usually begins within 2 to 6 weeks.

- Substrate / Soil Type:

Ipomoea violacea thrives in light, well-drained soil rich in humus. It flourishes in loamy or sandy soils that retain sufficient moisture while ensuring excellent drainage.

- Exposure / Sunlight:

This twining plant loves full sun. It requires at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day to promote abundant flowering and rapid growth.

- Temperatures / Hardiness:

Originating from tropical regions, it does not tolerate heavy frosts below -2°C. It must be protected or grown in pots in cold regions. In warm climates, it can be grown outdoors year-round.

- Watering / Water Needs:

It requires regular watering, especially during active growth and immediately after planting. However, excess water must be avoided to prevent root rot.

- Multiplication / Reproduction:

Purple Morning Glory is primarily reproduced by seed. Multiplication by cuttings is also possible starting in late spring.

- Pests / Predators:

It can be attacked by aphids or spider mites, which can hinder its growth. Scale insects (mealybugs) may also settle on the stems. A treatment based on black soap will effectively eliminate these pests.