Ipomoea alba
Overview
Uses: Cottage gardens, trellises, fences, pergolas, moon gardens, patio containers
Benefits: Large, fragrant white blooms that open at dusk, rapid summer growth, dramatic vertical coverage, luminous nighttime presence
USDA Hardiness Zones: 10–12 (grown as an annual in colder climates)
Sun: Full Sun
Life Cycle: Tender Perennial
Growth Habit: Climbing — twining stems that wrap around supports.
Bloom Color: White
Mature Height: 8–15'
Mature Width: 2–3'
Bloom Season: Summer through Fall
Growth Rate: Fast
Summary
Moonflower vine creates a dramatic evening display, opening enormous white blooms at dusk that glow softly in fading light and release a sweet fragrance into warm summer air.
Each flower can reach up to 6 inches across, unfurling quickly as the sun sets and remaining open through the night. This vigorous climber quickly covers trellises, fences, and pergolas, creating lush vertical interest during the day and luminous blooms after dark. It pairs beautifully with morning glories, offering continuous interest from sunrise to sunset.
Ideal for patios, cottage gardens, and dedicated moon gardens, Moonflower transforms outdoor spaces into inviting nighttime retreats.
Care
Moonflower Vine Care
Plant in full sun and well-drained soil once temperatures are consistently warm. This heat-loving vine performs best during long, hot summers.
Provide sturdy vertical support such as a trellis, arbor, or fence. The twining stems climb quickly and benefit from early guidance while establishing.
Water regularly during establishment to encourage strong root development. Once established, allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings but avoid prolonged drought.
Feed every 4–6 weeks during the growing season with a balanced slow release fertilizer to support steady growth and flowering.
Light pruning can help control size and encourage branching. Flower production increases with consistent heat and sunlight.
Size
What Size is Moonflower for Sale Online?
Moonflower plants are greenhouse-grown and shipped in a grow pot sized for safe transit and successful transplanting. Plants are actively growing and ready to climb once planted. For current sizing details, please contact us.
How Large Does Moonflower Grow?
Under warm summer conditions, vines typically reach 8–15 feet long with a spread of 2–3 feet when supported. Growth is rapid once established.
Additional Information
What are some common names for this plant?
Ipomoea alba is commonly known as Moonflower or Tropical White Morning Glory.
Is Moonflower a perennial or an annual?
Moonflower is a tender perennial in Zones 10–12 but is grown as a warm-season annual in most regions of the United States.
Does Moonflower attract pollinators?
Yes. The fragrant night-blooming flowers attract moths and other nocturnal pollinators, making it an excellent addition to Annuals and Flowering Vines & Climbing Plants collections focused on seasonal interest.
Can Moonflower be grown in containers?
Yes. Moonflower performs well in large containers with good drainage and sturdy vertical support. Plants hardy in the ground may require winter protection when grown in containers in colder zones.