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Plant Profiles / Sweet potato vine
Photos: Wikimedia Commons
Sweet potato vine
Ipomoea batatas (ornamental cultivars) · Ornamental sweet potato
A fast trailing foliage plant with heart-shaped leaves in chartreuse, purple and near-black. A classic "spiller" for mixed pots.
Sun to part shadeLight
Keep moistWater
Very easyCare level
Care at a glance
Light
Sun to part shade
ShadeFull sun
Brightest colour in sun.
Water
Keep moist
DryWet
Water often in heat.
Humidity
Average
LowHigh
Adaptable.
Temperature
12–35°C (54–95°F)
CoolWarm
Frost tender.
Growth
Fast, trailing
SlowFast
Trails 1–2 m.
Soil
Potting mix
LeanRich
Free-draining.
Fertiliser
Monthly
RarelyOften
Balanced fertiliser.
Pet safety
Toxic
SafeToxic
Mildly toxic if eaten.
About this plant
Ornamental sweet potatoes are selected for leaf colour. They grow quickly in heat and can be trimmed anytime.
Best spots
Pot edges, hanging baskets and window boxes.
Plant facts
| Botanical name | Ipomoea batatas (ornamental cultivars) |
| Family | Convolvulaceae |
| Origin | Tropical Americas |
| Plant type | Tender perennial |
| Mature size | Trails 1–2 m |
| Growth rate | Fast |
| Foliage | Lime, purple or black |
| Toxicity | Mildly toxic |
| Propagation | Cuttings |
Seasonal care calendar
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Plant
Trim
Active growth
PlantTrimActive growth
Based on Southern Hemisphere seasons.
Troubleshooting
| Holes | Beetles. |
| Pale leaves | Too much shade. |
| Wilting | Dry. |
| Taking over | Trim. |
| Cold damage | Frost tender. |
Common questions
Are tubers edible?
Edible but not tasty.
Spiller plant?
Yes.
Can I trim?
Anytime.
Perennial?
In frost-free areas.
