Overview

Ipomoea aquatica is a climbing, trailing climber wall shrub in the genus Ipomoea, part of the Convolvulaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Ipomoea aquatica grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H1c. Suggested uses include patio and container plants, sub-tropical, climber and wall shrubs and conservatory and greenhouse.

About

Ipomoea aquatica, commonly known as water spinach or kangkung, is a semi-aquatic, tropical plant grown as a vegetable for its tender shoots. I.

About the genus

Ipomoea is the largest genus in the plant family Convolvulaceae, with over 600 species. It is a large and diverse group, with common names including morning glory, water Convolvulus or water spinach, sweet potato, bindweed, moonflower, etc. The genus occurs throughout the tropical and subtropical regions of the world, and comprises annual and perennial herbaceous plants, lianas, shrubs, and small trees; most of the species are twining climbing plants.

Wikipedia contributors, "Ipomoea", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Ipomoea

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Ipomoea

Sunlight

Full sun

Soil type

Loam

Soil pH

Acid, Neutral, Alkaline

Soil moisture

Moist but well-drained

Aspect

South-facing

Exposure

Sheltered

UK hardiness

H1c

Plant details

Ipomoea aquatica size, habit and characteristics

Plant type

Climber Wall Shrub

Habit

Climbing, Trailing

Foliage

Deciduous

Suggested uses

Patio and container plants, Sub-tropical, Climber and wall shrubs, Conservatory and greenhouse

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Ipomoea aquatica

Propagation

Seed, softwood or semi-ripe cuttings

Pest resistance

Susceptible to glasshouse red spider mite and glasshouse whitefly

Disease resistance

Susceptible to fusarium wilt, powdery mildews and virus diseases

Frequently asked questions