Ipomea - Water Spinach

DESCRIPTION: This tropical, aquatic, creeping perennial is commonly known as Water Spinach. I. batatas spreads by means of runners. It produces spreading clumps of pointed, green leaves and occasionally, beautiful pink Morning Glory-like flowers. This plant is grown in the Far East for its edible stems, young leaves and shoots.

POTTING: Water Spinach can remain outdoors throughout the year in tropical climates only (min. temp. 40º F.). In other regions, it may be wintered indoors or in a heated greenhouse under strong grow lights. If it's grown in a tub, a trellis needs to be fixed to the container so it may climb up. When grown in a pond, plant in 5-gallon containers and allow up to 3 inches of water to cover the crown.

PROPAGATION: This plant may be increased by division, or runners and cuttings may be rooted.

VARIETIES

I. batatas.

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