PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Requires full sun to partial shade; at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily to support optimal blooming
Watering
Water deeply when the top 2–3 cm of soil is dry; avoid overwatering to prevent tuber and root rot
Temperature
Thrives in 18–30°C; tolerates mild frost, with above-ground foliage dying back to the tuber in cold winters
Characteristics
- Leaf: Heart-shaped or fiddle-shaped (pandurate) glossy green leaves, 7–15 cm long with smooth margins
- Flower: Fragrant white funnel-shaped blooms, 5–10 cm wide, opening in early morning and closing by midday
- Root: Large, fleshy tuberous root system that stores water and nutrients for winter dormancy
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged to support active growth and blooming
Fertilization
Diluted balanced liquid fertilizer every 2 weeks. Avoid over-fertilizing, as excessive nitrogen can reduce blooming and promote foliage growth over flowers
Banana peel compost tea：Compost banana peels for 2–3 weeks, steep in water for 24 hours, dilute 1:20 with water, and apply as a root drench to avoid leaf burnPruning
- Trim overgrown vines in early spring to encourage bushier growth and better flower production
- Deadhead spent blooms regularly to promote continuous flowering throughout the growing season
- Cut back dying foliage in late autumn to prepare the tuber for winter dormancy
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Toxic; contains lysergic alkaloids that may cause vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and dilated pupils
Humans: Seeds contain lysergic alkaloids; ingestion may cause nausea, dizziness, and mild hallucinogenic effects
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: Seeds have been used in limited traditional medicinal practices by some Eastern Woodlands Indigenous peoples
Usage: Ornamental climbing vine for trellises and arbors; tuber has limited historical medicinal use
