Man-in-the-Ground (Ipomea microdactyla)

LIMIT ONE, PLEASE

Description:  Long-lived perennial vine, periodically blooming with large numbers of    1.5 inch hot pink or crimson-colored morning-glory flowers. 

Natural Habitat:  Pine rocklands of South Florida and the Caribbean.

Planting and Care: Does best on a fence or trellis, but will climb up shrubs and small trees.  Flowers best in full sun. Rapid growth in optimal conditions and full sun, responds well to granular or liquid fertilizer, and prefers moist soil. May die back completely or partially, then re-sprout.

Pros:  Long-lived. Flowers are ~ 1.5" wide and very attractive.  Drought-tolerant once established.

Cons:  Not much; may cover shrubs or small trees. Sometimes difficult to establish if soil is initially too dry or boggy.