A series of ornamental Sweet Potato Vines with a wide variety of foliage colors.
Pronunciation
(ip-oh-MEE-a)(bat-TAT-as)
Plant Type
All Plants, Perennial Tender
Hardiness Zone
10-11
Sunlight
I have grown this plant in 1/2 to 3/4 day full sun and their seems to be no problem with the foliage burning. Some references suggest that all day full sun could burn the plant
Moisture
Prefers to be kept evenly moist. Becoming dry will not kill the plant but will cause damage to the foliage. As the plants fill out the pot they will need more water
Soil & Site
average
Growing Media
average
Temperature
not frost tolerant
Leaves
Leaves can be spade, lobed or heart shaped. Colors can be purple, purple/black, light green, chartreuse, bronze, etc.
Dimensions
an ever expanding vine, 6 inches tall
Maintenance
trimming back to control size
Propagation
One of the easier plants I have ever rooted from cuttings. Easier than Coleus or Inch plant. Also started from division of the tuberous roots
Native Site
Species native to tropical Americas.
Author's Notes
After the growing season dig into the pot and uproot one of the tubers. It is amazing to see what this plant grew from. I have let these tubers go dry for an extended period of time and have just given them some water and they have popped back to life. An incredible plant
Notes & Reference
#51-Armitage's Manual of Annuals, Biennials, and Half-Hardy Perennials (Alan Arimitage), #109-Annuals and Tender Perennials for North American Gardens (Wayne Winterrowd)