Moonflower

Ipomoea alba. Annual. 15'.

Moonflower vine with its luxuriant foliage is covered with 6" fragrant white flowers that open summer evenings. Grow as a perennial in the south as an annual in the north.  Moonflowers open in the evening to be pollinated by night flying moths. The flower is white to attract moths. After opening up at night the flower petals die in the morning after they open. It is closely related to the morning glory which opens in the morning to be pollinated by bees and other insects that are active during the day. 

Planting Directions: Sow seeds 1/2” deep in fine soil after danger from frost has past. Germination takes 5-21 days at temperatures of 70°-85° . Chip seeds and soak in warm water for 24 hours then plant. Seed may be started indoors 3 to 4 weeks before last frost. Sow seed ½” deep in sterile seed starting mix maintaining even moisture and soil temperature of 70° to 85°.  When transplanting be careful and do not disturb the root system. Thin or transplant plants to 12” apart when vines are 4” tall. Moonflower prefers full sun, loose soil that that is not to high in nitrogen, and will tolerate dry soil. Provide a trellis or other support for climbing species.