I have been given a packet of seeds for "Mina Lobata" and really love the look of the picture of the flower on the package BUT after a search that didn't say anything about it being invasive or not (how many really do?) but mentioning like plants that are sometimes horribly so I am hesitant to plant this here where we don't get the kind of weather to kill it if it a mistake. Any input will be greatly appreciated.
Thanks in advance
Etta
Do I dare plant this?
Equilibrium
May 06, 2007
It's really hard to do a search for a plant's invasiveness when the scientific name isn't correct. Check for your plant using this- Ipomoea lobata
It's an annual. It's not indigenous to NA. And, it's probably one of the few Ipomoea out there that isn't totally aggressive. Plant it and see what happens. If you are worried, dead head it.
Thank you. I really would like to try this as it is so pretty, but I will take your warning and deadhead. I have learned so much from you and all of the other posters on this forum.
Thank you all for saving me from some horrible mistakes. I live where Gorse and Broom have taken over our corner of the world and am trying to be careful about what I let loose here in "Gardener's Paradise".
Etta
Equilibrium
May 06, 2007
Say Etta, I poked around a little bit and that plant didn't have any bad press I could easily find.
I plant lots of plants just to experiment and I keep a good eye on them if they're not native to my area. If they start "misbehaving", I waste them feeling no remorse at all for the money I spent. Your 'Mina Lobata' looks as if it would be one that I would try were I attracted to it. I seriously couldn't locate anything terribly negative about the plant.
You should bookmark this thread and add some photos after your seed germinates and again after your plants mature. Looks as if you might have a mild mannered exotic on your hands and everybody likes those.
Loved your reference to Gorse and Broom.
Lauren
I haven't heard anything bad about it either. If you're still not sure, you might try asking in the Pac. Northwest forum and see if anyone in your area has personal experience with it.
I planted seed for this plant this year and I will try to remember to update on it. My package was labeled also Spanish Flag.