Morning glory
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Morning glory is one of several climbing plants of the following species, all belonging to the Convolvulaceae:
- Calystegia stebbinsii (Stebbins' morning glory)
- Convolvulus althaeoides
- Ipomoea arborescens (tree morning glory)
- Ipomoea purpurea (common morning glory or field bindweed)
- Ipomoea violacea (tlitliltzin) Naturally occurring in the United States
- Merremia aurea (yellow morning glory)
- Rivea corymbosa (ololiuhqui)
The seeds of many species of morning glory contain ergoline alkaloids. Seeds of I. violacea and R. corymbosa are used as hallucinogenic drugs.
Morning glory, also called asagao, was first known in China for its medicinal uses, due to the laxative properties of its seeds. It was introduced to the Japanese in the 9th century, and they were the first to cultivate it as an ornamental. During the Edo Period, it became a very popular ornamental flower. In recent years, it has also become imporant in North American gardens. It is treateed as a perennial in many tropical areas or an annual in colder climates.
Morning glory vines feature saucer-shaped flowers that open mainly in the morning hours. The vines perform best when subjected to morning light, partial to full sun throughout the day, and mesic soils.