Sweet Potato Jet Black - Ipomoea batatas

The Sweet Heart 'Jet Black' Ipomoea or Ipomoea batatas is a perennial gelive plant, grown as an annual. It forms an elegant and trailing dome, with flexible stems covered in opulent, shiny purple-black foliage, delicately heart-shaped leaves. This plant transforms all hanging baskets and planters just by its presence. It should be grown in full sun or partial shade, in moist but well-drained soil.

Ipomoea batatas is a plant from the Convolvulaceae family, native to Central America and the Pacific Islands. In its country of origin, it is a climbing perennial plant that can reach a length of 1 to 3 metres (3 to 10 feet). The 'Sweet Heart' Ipomoeas were originally developed as part of a research project to create new edible varieties. The fantastic colours of their foliage eventually found their way to our terraces and balconies.

The 'Jet Black' variety stands out for its remarkable foliage, compact and trailing habit, of great ornamental value. This plant forms a round and dense clump, at least 20cm (8in) in height, with a diameter of 40cm (16in) or more. On sturdy yet flexible stems, its perfectly shaped entire leaves resemble hearts or 'spades', with a purple hue that turns brick or black depending on the sunlight. This plant blooms little, at the end of the season, after a long period of sun and heat. Its small deep cone-shaped flowers are pink with a darker throat, nestled in the foliage. This plant shows good tolerance to summer heat.

The 'Jet Black' Ipomoea has a strong personality, but it enhances all the companion plants. It can be used in floral compositions, in pots, planters or hanging baskets. Combine the nuanced purple of its foliage with the blue of Lobelias, the orange of Verbenas and a bright pink pelargonium. It can be used to border pathways and create very unique annual ground covers, forming a sumptuous setting for taller perennials. Its foliage looks best when the plant is backlit, slightly shaded in the afternoon.

Note: Please be aware that our young plug plants are professional products reserved for experienced gardeners. Upon receipt, transplant and store them in a sheltered place (veranda, greenhouse, cold frame...) at a temperature above 14°C (57.2°F) for a few weeks before installing them outdoors once the risk of frost has definitively passed.