Mile-a-minute Vine (Ipomoea cairica)

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Sunlight Thrives in full direct sunlight; tolerates partial afternoon shade in extremely hot climates

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Watering Water thoroughly when the top 2 cm of soil is dry; avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot

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Temperature Prefers warm to hot temperatures; protect from frost below 10°C to prevent foliage damage

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Leaf: Palmate, 5-lobed, glossy medium green, 5–10 cm wide
Flower: Trumpet-shaped, 3–5 cm wide, pale lavender to pinkish-white with a darker purple throat
Stem: Slender, herbaceous, hairless, with twining growth habit

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Watering

Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy; increase frequency during prolonged dry spells

Fertilization

Diluted balanced liquid feed every 2 weeks. Avoid over-fertilization to prevent excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowering

Banana peel compost tea：Compost banana peels for 2–3 weeks, steep in water for 24 hours, dilute 1:20 for root drench; avoid applying to dry soil

Pruning

Trim overgrown vines to control spread and maintain desired shape
Remove dead or yellowing foliage to improve airflow and reduce disease risk
Cut back to 30 cm above soil in late winter to stimulate vigorous new spring growth
Remove spent flowers to prevent unwanted self-seeding in sensitive ecosystems

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Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Toxic; contains lysergic alkaloids that may cause vomiting, diarrhea, dilated pupils, and tremors

Humans: Ingestion of large quantities of seeds may cause hallucinations, nausea, and dizziness due to lysergic alkaloids

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Culture: Symbolizes affectionate attachment in some tropical regions; classified as invasive in parts of Australia and the southern U.S.

Usage: Ornamental climbing vine for arbors, fences, and retaining walls; groundcover for erosion control on slopes