Guide to Growing Star Ipomoea/Cypress Vine - Quamoclit
Quamoclit are half hardy perennial vines that may reach from 3 to 6 metres in height.
Recently members of the genus have been reclassifed into Ipomoea. E.g., Quamoclit vulgaris is now called Ipomoea Quamoclit.
They bloom in the mornings and evenings from summer to autumn, they carry tubular shaped flowers of orange, yellow or red.
Some common names for Quamoclit include Star Ipomoea, Spanish Flag, Cypress vine, Cardinal climber and Scarlet Star Glory.
Quamoclit vulgaris/Ipomoea Quamoclit (Cypress vine) by Rameshng.
How to Grow Star Ipomoea
If growing Star Ipomoea, Cypress Vine or other members of the Quamoclit genus outdoors from the off then the seeds should be sown at a depth of 3 mm, and a spacing of 40 to 90 cm in the middle of spring, a couple of weeks after the last chance of frost. As Star Ipomoea are climbing vines they should be given a trellis or similar structure to grow upon. Quamoclit species are able to grow in both sunny or partially shaded conditions and prefer a light and sandy soil.
If first growing Star Ipomoea or similar species indoors then chip the seeds and soak for a day in warm water. The Quamoclit seeds should then be germinated at 18 to 22 degrees centigrade; this should take from one to three weeks. Transplant the seedlings outdoors in mid spring.
Caring for Star Ipomoea
It is easy to look after Quamoclit species such as Star Ipomoea and Cardinal climbers; they require something to grow upon, and should not be over fed.