man of the earth
Family
ConvolvulaceaeScientific Name
Ipomoea pandurata
Other Common Names:
wild potato-vine
morningglory
Synonyms (former Scientific Names):
Ipomoea pandurata
Habit
Bigroot morningglory usually hugs the ground, though it may climb items that it runs into. It is most often found in drier soils and in waste lands.
Leaves
The leaves of bigroot morningglory are alternate in arrangement. The edges are entire and the leaves are heart shaped. They are approximately 4 inches long and 3.5 inches wide.
Identifying Characteristics
Bigroot morningglory is mostly noted for its large, edible root. It is related to the sweet potato and can grow up to 30 pounds
Flower Seed Head
The flowers of bigroot morningglory are white with a purple center and bloom from late spring to early fall. The flowers are up to 3 inches long and 3 inches wide with petals that are almost completely united into a tube.
Seed Fruit
The seeds of bigroot morningglory are contained in a capsule. The seeds are reddish brown, and hairy around the edges.
Where Found
Found: Bigroot morningglory is found throughout most of the eastern United States. It is found as far north as New York and Michigan, and as far west as Texas.
Growth Habit
vine
Thorns or Spines
not present
Approximate Flower Diameter
Varies:
dime,
nickle,
quarter
Dominant Flower Color
Varies:
white,
purple
Flower Symmetry
radial symmetery
Leaf Hairs
no hairs
Leaf Shape
heart
Leaf Arrangement
alternate
Leaf Margin
Varies:
entire,
wavy
Leaf Structure
simple
Leaf Stalk
Varies:
shorter than leaf,
longer than leaf
Stem Hairs
Varies:
has hairs,
no hairs
Stem Cross Section
round or oval
Milky Sap
not present
Root Structure
taproot
Life Cycle
perennial
Ochrea
not present
Plant Type
Vine