Morning glories and moonflowers are two popular vines that have been cherished by gardeners in Texas for many years. While they share some similarities, there are distinct differences between these flowering plants.
1. Appearance: Morning glories (Ipomoea purpurea) are available in a wide range of colors including purple, blue, pink, and white. They typically bloom during the day and close up as the evening approaches. On the other hand, moonflowers (Ipomoea alba) only come in white and have large, showy flowers that open at night and close in the morning.
2. Blooming Time: Morning glories are known for their vibrant blooms that open early in the day and last until the afternoon. They thrive in full sun and their flowers attract bees and butterflies. Moonflowers, as the name suggests, bloom at night and release a sweet fragrance to attract night-flying moths for pollination. Their large white flowers are a striking sight in the moonlight.
3. Fragrance: Morning glories generally do not have a strong scent, though some varieties may have a subtle fragrance. Moonflowers, on the other hand, emit a delightful fragrance during their nighttime blooming period, which adds to their allure and makes them ideal for nighttime gardens or areas where you can enjoy their scent in the evenings.
4. Growth Habit: Both morning glories and moonflowers are climbing vines that require support such as trellises, fences, or arbors to grow and twine around. Morning glories tend to have heart-shaped leaves, while moonflowers have more arrow-shaped leaves. Moonflowers can reach heights of 10 to 15 feet, while morning glories can grow up to 10 feet tall.
5. Seed Germination: Morning glory seeds are relatively easy to germinate and can be directly sown into the ground or started indoors before the last frost. They have a hard seed coat, and soaking the seeds in warm water overnight or nicking the seed coat can help improve germination rates. Moonflower seeds also have a hard seed coat and can be soaked in warm water for 24 hours before planting to enhance germination. However, moonflowers are more sensitive to cold temperatures and are often started indoors or planted after the last frost.
6. Toxicity: It is important to note that while morning glories are generally safe to handle and grow, moonflowers are considered toxic if ingested. The seeds, in particular, contain toxic alkaloids and should be kept away from children and pets.
Morning glories and moonflowers are two distinct vines with different blooming habits, colors, fragrances, and growth patterns. Whether you prefer the vibrant colors and daytime blooms of morning glories or the enchanting white blossoms and nighttime fragrance of moonflowers, both can add beauty and charm to any garden or landscape.
