The Ipomoea Blackie, A Purple Trailing Sweet Potato Vine

About The Ipomoea Blackie

Did you know that the Ipomoea Blackie was the first sweet potato vine introduced? Whether I plant the Ipomoea Blackie, the deep purple sweet potato vine or other varieties, the trailing/cascading growth habit can't be beat.

Grown for its foliage, the Blackie maintains its deep purple, almost ebony color in full sun and is primarily used in planters or hanging baskets as spiller plants, but have you ever thought of allowing this ornamental annual runner to climb up and along a trellis? Call it vertical gardening.

How To Grow The Ipomoea Blackie

According to my fellow gardeners, they insist that this trailing annual receive at least 6 hours of full sun a day. This allows for the deep purple coloring to stay. However, I find that the full hot sun can burn and brown the leaf edges. I have it planted in a part sun location all day long and it is performing quite nicely and keeping its dark coloring.

I like the fact that it is heat and drought tolerant, but don't allow it to dry out too much as the the leaves will eventually wilt and turn brown.

I speak from experience as I forgot to water one of my hanging baskets in the very far depth of my backyard. I had forgotten that the overhang of our garden shed prevented the multitude amount of rain we received this year from reaching it. And yes, the leaves wilted and some turned brown. I snipped off the brown leaves, gave it a good soak and low and behold, the Blackie returned to life.

When first planted (in well drained soil), I must admit that it took a couple of weeks before I saw any cascading action, however when it started to trail, my word, it trailed. This sweet potato vine, which only grows to 6" tall (mounds), can achieve a 6' spread.

Rarely bothered by pests, this Ipomoea can suffer fungal leaf spot, wilt and stem rot. Just keep an eye on it during the planting season, as you would your other plants that can be affected by the same issues.

Remember that this annual plant will cause an upset stomach if ingested, so keep an eye on your critters...or kids.

Great companions plantings:Alyssum, various Petunias, Felicia Daisy, Euphorbia Diamond Frost or the Scaevola.

Check out my Site Index Page for a listing of additional annuals and perennials to plant in your flower garden design.

The Ipomoea Blackie Features

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