Ipomoea batatas, commonly known as sweet potato vine or blackie, is a tender tuberous perennial plant. This means that it is a plant that typically lives for more than two years, but its survival and growth may be affected by cold temperatures. In colder regions, it is often grown as an annual because it cannot withstand frost and will die back in winter.
The leaves of Ipomoea batatas ‘Blackie’ are a striking feature of this plant. They are heart-shaped and deeply lobed, with a unique almost black color. The dark foliage adds a dramatic and eye-catching element to any garden or container. It can be a great addition to a mixed container planting, providing contrast to other plants and adding depth to the overall design.
In addition to its attractive foliage, ‘Blackie’ also produces trumpet-shaped flowers. The flowers range in color from lavender to pale purple, adding a lovely touch of softness to the plant. While the flowers may not be the main attraction of ‘Blackie’, they still contribute to the overall beauty of the plant.
One of the advantages of Ipomoea batatas ‘Blackie’ is its versatility in garden design. It can be used effectively in containers, where its trailing vines can spill over the edges and create a cascading effect. ‘Blackie’ can also be planted in beds and borders, where it can be used as a ground cover or as a weaving plant among other taller plants. Its dark foliage creates a striking contrast with green plants and can add depth and interest to the overall garden design.
Personally, I have used Ipomoea batatas ‘Blackie’ in my own garden and found it to be a visually stunning plant. The dark leaves provided a beautiful backdrop for other plants, and the trailing vines added a touch of elegance to my container plantings. I also appreciated its low maintenance nature, as it required minimal care and continued to thrive throughout the growing season.
Ipomoea batatas ‘Blackie’ is a tender tuberous perennial plant that is often grown as an annual in colder regions. Its dark, almost black leaves and trumpet-shaped lavender to pale purple flowers make it a visually striking addition to any garden or container. Its versatility in design and low maintenance nature make it a popular choice among gardeners.
