Moonflower (Ipomoea alba)

Family: Convolvulaceae | Edibility: Edible (2/5)

Ipomoea alba is an evergreen Perennial Climber growing to 10 m (32ft 10in) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 8. It is in leaf all year, in flower from July to August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Nuts/Seeds, Leaves

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Young leaves and fleshy calyces - cooked. Steamed and eaten as a vegetable or used in curries, soups, stews etc. They can also be dried for later use. Seed - eaten when young. — Young leaves and fleshy calyces - cooked.; Steamed and eaten as a vegetable or used in curries, soups, stews etc.; They can also be dried for later use.; Seed - eaten when young.

Habitat & North American Range

Wet forests, watercourses and disturbed areas in China. (Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9, Zone 10)