Man of the Earth (Ipomoea pandurata)

14/01/2014



Ipomoea pandurata (L.) G. Mey. 1818, commonly called Man of the Earth, Big-root Morning Glory, Wild Potato Vine or Manroot, is a herbaceous perennial vine, native to Florida and the eastern part of North America, but nowadys naturalized in most tropical and subtropical regions around the world. The tuberous root, similar to its relative, the sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas), is edible, but the taste, reminescent of sweet potatoes is slightly bitter and uncooked Ipomoea pandurata roots have purgative properties. In its native range, the Wild Potato Vine is listed by the U.S. federal government both, as endangered species (Michigan and Mew York) and as a noxious weed or
invasive species (Arizona and Arkansas).


Man of the Earth (Ipomoea pandurata) is identified by its singly attached, heart shaped leaves and reach lengths up to 6 meters. The white flowers with a red, pink or purple center get a size
of 5 - 10 cm across. Flowering period: Summer - Autumn.
Ipomoea pandurata is best cultivated in full sun and is hardy. The tropical plant tolerates temperatures as low as about -25°C.
Seeds are poisonous if ingested.

Man of the Earth (Ipomoea pandurata)
Flower Photography © Orchids Flowers.com
Image: Man of the Earth (Ipomoea pandurata)
Morning Glory (Ipomoea) plants at Orchids Flowers.com:


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