Sweet potato vine (Ipomoea batatas ‘Blackie’) eye-poe-MEE-ah bah-TAY-tas Genus:  Ipomoea This tender tuberous perennial with heart-shaped, lobed, almost black leaves bears trumpet-shaped lavender to pale purple flowers. It is excellent in containers or weaving among other plants in beds and borders. Noteworthy Characteristics:  Seeds are highly toxic if ingested. Care:  Grow in moderately fertile, well-drained soil in full sun. Shelter from cold, drying winds. Provide support or use as a groundcover. 'Blackie' is usually grown as an annual. Propagation:  Sow seed in spring after chipping them or soaking them in water for 24 hours. Root softwood cuttings in spring or summer, or semi-ripe cuttings in summer. Problems:  White blister, rust, fungal leaf spots, stem rot, thread blight, charcoal rot, and wilt.

Overview

Growth Habit Runs Growth Pace Moderate Grower Light Full Sun Only Moisture Adaptable Characteristics Showy Foliage Bloom Time Fall, Summer Flower Color Red Uses Beds and Borders, Ground Covers, Poisonous, Suitable as Annual, Trellis Seasonal Interest Summer Interest Type Vines