Moonflower

While morning glories open early in the day, vining moonflowers open in the evening, reflecting the moonlight to make a lovely display for a twilight stroll. You can watch the flowers pop open as darkness descends.

Description of moonflower: This quick-growing plant rapidly stretches vines up to 15 feet long. They bear oval or rounded leaves and large, white, trumpet-shaped flowers with a lovely fragrance.

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How to grow moonflower: Sow the seed directly outdoors in a sunny site with moderately fertile but well-drained soil.

Propagating moonflower: By seed. Soak the seeds in water for 24 hours before planting to speed germination. In the North, get earlier bloom by starting seeds indoors in peat pots 4 to 6 weeks before planting out. Germination takes 5 to 7 days at 70 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Transplant the peat pots to the garden -- pot and all -- without disturbing the roots.

Uses for moonflower: Like morning glories, let moonflowers climb fences and trellises, even mailboxes. You can cut the flowers in the evening for the dining room table.

Scientific name for moonflower: Ipomoea alba

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Want more gardening information? Try:

  • Annual Flowers: Learn more about annuals and their glorious, must-have summer colors.
  • Annuals: Find out how annuals can enhance your garden.
  • Perennial Flowers: Find out more about how to grow and care for perennial flowers, which come in all thinkable shapes, sizes and colors.

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