Ipomoea

The genus Ipomoea includes over 600 species of herbaceous plants, vines, shrubs, and small trees. Ipomoea batatas is the species referred to as Sweet Potato Vine. Although native to Central and South America, it has been widely cultivated around the world for its edible tubers and ornamental foliage. Plants display heart-shaped or lobed leaves that can vary in color from deep purple to lime green, and their trailing habit makes them a popular choice for adding a splash of color to containers and hanging baskets, or grown as a ground cover. The large and colorful leaves cascade from containers in a seemingly endless stream all summer long. Sweet Potato Vine thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers well-drained soil with consistent moisture; it can tolerate periods of drought once established.