Blue Morning Glory: A Comprehensive Guide

If you're a flower enthusiast, you might have come across the stunning blue morning glory. This beautiful flower is known for its vibrant blue color and trumpet-shaped blooms that open in the morning and close by midday. In this blog post, we'll delve deeper into the world of blue morning glories, exploring their origin, characteristics, symbolism, and how to grow them.

Origin and Characteristics

The blue morning glory, also known as Ipomoea indica, is native to tropical regions of South America, but it can now be found growing in various parts of the world, including Asia, Africa, and Australia. The plant can grow up to 15 feet tall, and its leaves are heart-shaped and deep green. The flowers usually bloom from midsummer to early fall, and each bloom lasts only one day.

Blooms

As mentioned earlier, the blue morning glory's blooms are trumpet-shaped, with a diameter of about 3-4 inches. They are a vibrant shade of blue, with a white or yellow center. The flowers open in the morning and close by midday, hence their name. If you're lucky, you might catch a glimpse of a hummingbird or bee pollinating the blooms.

Cultivars

There are several cultivars of blue morning glory, each with its unique characteristics. Some of the popular ones include:

• Heavenly Blue - Features large, deep blue blooms and heart-shaped leaves
• Grandpa Ott's - Has smaller blooms than Heavenly Blue, but they are a deeper shade of blue
• Blue Star - Features pale blue blooms with a white center

Symbolism and Meaning

Like many other flowers, the blue morning glory has its symbolism and meaning. In some cultures, it represents love, affection, and mortality. The flower's fleeting nature, with each bloom lasting only a day, is seen as a reminder of the transience of life. In Chinese folklore, the morning glory is associated with the story of the Cowherd and Weaver Girl, a tale of forbidden love.

Spiritual Significance

In spiritual practices such as shamanism, the blue morning glory is believed to have healing properties. The plant's alkaloids are said to induce visions and can be used in medicinal or ritualistic ways to promote physical and spiritual healing.

How to Grow Blue Morning Glory

If you're interested in growing blue morning glories, here's what you need to know:

Soil and Location

Blue morning glories prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. They also require full sun exposure for at least six hours a day. It's best to plant them in the spring when there is no more risk of frost.

Propagation

You can propagate blue morning glories by planting seeds or cuttings. If using seeds, soak them in warm water for 24 hours before planting them about an inch deep in the soil. If using cuttings, take a cutting from an established plant and place it in a pot filled with moist soil. Keep the soil consistently moist until roots to grow.

Care

Once your blue morning glories have ed to grow, make sure to water them regularly and provide support for their vines to climb. You can use trellises, fences, or poles to support the vines. Fertilize the plants every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.

Common Issues and Solutions

Unfortunately, blue morning glories can be prone to some pests and diseases. Here are some common issues you might encounter and how to solve them:

Pests

Spider Mites

Spider mites are tiny pests that feed on the plant's sap, causing yellowing and wilting leaves. To get rid of them, spray the plant with water to knock them off and apply an insecticidal soap solution.

Aphids

Aphids are sap-sucking insects that cause stunted growth and distorted leaves. Remove them manually or apply a neem oil solution to the plant.

Diseases

Powdery Mildew

Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that causes a white, powdery coating on the leaves. To treat it, remove infected leaves and spray the plant with a fungicide.

Root Rot

Root rot is caused by overwatering and can cause the plant to wilt and die. Make sure to water the plant only when the top inch of soil is dry and provide good drainage.


Blue morning glories are a beautiful addition to any garden, and their symbolism and spiritual significance make them all the more special. With the right care and attention, you can grow these stunning flowers in your own backyard and enjoy their vibrant blooms for many summers to come.

FAQs

Q1: Can blue morning glories grow in containers?

Yes, blue morning glories can be grown in containers as long as they have enough room to grow and a trellis or support for their vines.

Q2: Do blue morning glories attract hummingbirds?

Yes, hummingbirds are attracted to the trumpet-shaped blooms of the blue morning glory and can often be seen pollinating them.

Q3: Can I save seeds from my blue morning glory plant?

Yes, you can save seeds from your blue morning glory plant by allowing the seed pods to dry on the vine before harvesting them.

Q4: How often should I fertilize my blue morning glory plant?

It's best to fertilize your blue morning glory plant every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.

Q5: Are blue morning glories toxic to pets?

Yes, blue morning glories are toxic to pets if ingested. Keep them out of reach of pets and children.