Botanical family: Convolvulaceae

Argyreia nervosa, Argyreia speciosa

A native of eastern India and Bangladesh, this vigorous twiner will grow 30 ft (9 m) or more into the treetops, but can be trained over a post or stump and kept trimmed to a moundlike form. A dense white down covers both young stems and leaf undersides. The leaves are ovate-cordate, to 1 foot across, white tomentose beneath with lateral veins conspicuous on the undersides. Tight clusters of trumpet-shaped bright pink flowers about 2 in (5 cm) across on pedicels to 6 inches long appear among the foliage in spring and summer. In a tropical climate cultivation is simple, the plants making very vigorous growth in a sunny position in moist soil. In cooler climates they can be grown in a sunny conservatory, but due to their rampant growth will need frequent cutting back. Propagate from seed or cuttings. Used medicinally in India. The roots and seeds of Elephant Creeper have been used as a support of the nervous system, a geriatric tonic and mild aphrodisiac. The whole plant is reported to have purifying properties. It is also taken to help maintain healthy joints.

Calonyction aculeatum, Ipomoea alba

When grown in their native climates, moonflowers (Calonyction aculeatum) prefer a full sun to semi-shade position and need regular water. In cooler regions, the vine should be grown in a container and placed in a warm, sheltered area of the garden. It needs to be watered regularly with moderate amount of water throughout its growing season. In winter, reduce watering and move the pot to a frost-free area.

Its trumpet-shaped, white or off-white flowers bloom in the evening and are very fragrant, thus it attracts various butterflies and hummingbirds. Be aware that this flower is considered invasive in some areas and its spread should be monitored carefully. It is best grown in USDA Zones 9-11.

Convolvulus sp.

USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map

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They are annual or perennial herbaceous vines, bines and (a few species of) woody shrubs, growing to 0.3-3 m tall. The leaves are spirally arranged, and the flowers trumpet-shaped, mostly white or pink, but blue, violet, purple or yellow in some species.

Dichondra argentea

Dichondra argentea, commonly known as Silver Falls, is native to the Southeastern United States and is prized for its low-growing habit and ornamental foliage. This fast growing groundcover offers a stunning waterfall effect, cascading up to 2 feet of delicate silver-gray foliage. Silver Falls is a vigorous, easy to grow annual (or perennial, semi to fully deciduous in winter) that prefers a full sun to semi-shade spot with moderate water.

In warmer regions, Silver Falls can be grown in containers and hanging baskets as well as in gardens, providing dashes of silvery gray along pathways and besides garden beds. The plant will form a neat mound of foliage and, in full sun, even slightly silver-tinged. In colder regions, Silver Falls can be grown in containers and pots, allowing gardeners the ability to move the plant indoors if needed.

Silver Falls is an incredibly low maintenance plant and can tolerate short periods of drought. Regularly water, but avoid over-watering or you can risk root rot. An occasional trim to keep the foliage neat and tidy is all that is needed. For colorful accents, silver falls can be planted in combination with contrasting plants in mixed containers or beds. USDA Hardiness Zones 8-10.

Evolvulus sp.

These plants are annual and perennial herbs and shrubs.

Ipomoea abrupta, Convolvulus abruptus

The bush potato will thrive in full sun or semi-shade and only requires moderate water. The plant is a vigorous, fast growing evergreen climber, twiner or creeper and will reach a height of 2 to 4 meters.

The flower colour varies from deep pink to white or off white. The flowers attract pollinators such as birds, bees and other insects. As far as growing, Ipomoea abrupta does best in USDA Zones 9-11. It makes a fast growing and attractive addition to any garden and is usually grown in either pots or containers and may require some pruning.

When growing Ipomoea abrupta in cold or temperate regions, it is best grown in pots or containers so it can be moved indoors during cold weather. When growing in pots, use a well-drained soil mixture and ensure that the pot is big enough for the roots to grow. Place the pot in a location with ample sunlight and water regularly, but do not over water. For more vigorous growth, you may need to fertilize the plant. To help the plant survive the cold weather, mulch the pot heavily and make sure to bring it indoors if frost is expected.

Ipomoea arborescens

Rare in cultivation, this is a small size tree, but very rapidly growing 6-10 ft in a year! So you can have a mature specimen within 1-2 years. This caudiciform tropical tree is mostly found in Mexico. It has pretty white or cream flowers that are funnel-shaped. Flowers are major nectar sources for bats, hummingbirds, and bees.

Ipomoea batatas

This sought after "Golden Sweet Potato Vine" is a landscaper's dream. Gorgeous golden/purple foliage is easy to grow and will bring vibrant color and life to your container or garden edges. Full sun, grows to 6" in container, trailing in habit. Ipomoea batatas is easily propagated by stem cuttings and by division of the tubers.

See Article about this plant: Ipomoea batatas - Sweet Potatoes, healthy food for every kitchen.

Ipomoea batatas Pink Frost

Its striking pink, white and green foliage attracts much attention when used in the garden border or patio container. A vining Sweet Potato, its vigorous growth will amaze you. Hardy Zone 10 and higher Full sun, grows to 6" in container, trailing in habit, minimum temperature 60°F.

Ipomoea cairica

This heat-loving vine prefers full sun, but can tolerate light to semi-shade in hot climates. With its moderate water requirements, Ipomoea cairica (Cairo Morning Glory) is suitable for most gardens. The plant is native to tropical Africa and Asia and grows in USDA Zones 9-11, producing beautiful flowers in shades of pink, lavender, blue and purple. The petals are star-shaped and are clustered together in groups of two or three. Fruits are four-valved capsules, each containing a single seed with feathery hairs attached.

This is a great plant for brightening up pergolas, covering walls and for growing over garden benches. When planting in a pot in cold regions, it should be kept in a sheltered spot protected from strong winds and frost. Choose a well-draining soil mix, one that is light and airy, yet still able to hold moisture. Place the pot in full sun or partial shade that provides a few hours of sunshade during the hottest part of the day. Regular watering is essential. Let the soil dry out slightly between each one, but never let it become completely dry. A slow-release, balanced fertilizer should be applied every month or so.

Growers in cold areas should be aware of Ipomoea cairica's tendency to become invasive. It's best to keep watch for any spread outdoors and to avoid planting it too close to other plants.