Driving through Lafayette, LA yesterday, I was startled to come across this mass of blue on several fences on this property. I'm curious to know if it is typical of a particular variety. I took several pictures which I will post to assist those with more experience than I! I'm curious about the fine pattern on the leaves as well...I don't recall ever seeing pictures of this on an MG leaf.
A portion of the full display in full sun.
Face view of the corolla in full sun - about noon.
Typical lobed leaves - although an occasional heart shaped leaf could be found.
This view is for Ron!
atenkley - The plant is typical for the Ipomoea indica that grows naturally in that area and the 'pattern' on the leaves looks like it is due to a simple loss of chlorophyll (due to local chemistry,e.g.,low nitrogen,high iron levels ,etc.,),and not a gene for a variegated patterning in the leaves...
The species Ipomoea indica is somewhat of a misnomer because as the species epithet of 'indica' suggests,this plant was once thought to have originated in Asia,but the most recent genetic evidence shows that the species originated in the general Gulf/Caribbean area and is now considered by the up to date evidence to be a native(!) e.g., of Florida...
TTY,...
P.S. - nice closeup of the sepals(!)...
Thanks for the quick response, Ron. A local native...!! Overall, it was a very attractive display.
If I can get back there, I may consider taking a cutting for evaluation in my garden. Does it have any bad habits that you know of? I didn't have a lot of time and didn't notice any seed pods developing - although I know it is early in the season.
Interesting background information as well!
Thanks again - Arlan
Arlan - Ipomoea indica is a perennial that tends to be invasive,especially in areas where the above ground vegetative parts do not die back from the cold...so(!),I would suggest growing it in a large container to prevent the roots from spreading and the above ground vines from taking root in the soil where they make contact with the ground...
Ipomoea indica is often seedless due to clonal self-infertility,but fertile seed producing plants are becoming more common...if the plant material you have is fertilized by pollen from another compatible plant source,your plants will produce seeds...keeping a watchful eye on any seeds produced will help to prevent overcolonization...
TTY,...
Ron
Ron, I may just observe this plant from the distance we have now! All the other MG options look better to me at the moment! I guess if it were an important butterfly host plant or something like that it might find its way into my yard (or neighborhood)! I've got my hands full with kudzu....don't need another "potential problem" plant.
Thanks - Arlan
