Wild Cotton

(Ipomoea albivenia)

Wild Cotton (Ipomoea albivenia)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Ipomoea albivenia, commonly known as Wild Cotton, is a deciduous perennial vine native to rocky slopes and open woodlands in Southeastern Africa. It can reach a height of 20-25 feet (6-8 meters) and a width of 15-20 feet (5-6 meters). The vine is known for its heart-shaped leaves and large, showy, trumpet-shaped white flowers that bloom in the summer, adding a tropical flair to gardens. The flowers are particularly attractive to pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

Wild Cotton is valued for its drought tolerance and the ornamental quality of its blooms. It is often used in cultivation for covering trellises, arbors, and fences, providing quick coverage with its vigorous growth. Gardeners appreciate its low water requirements and adaptability to soils with medium drainage. While it thrives in full sun, it can tolerate light shade. It is less commonly used for its fibers, which are similar to those of commercial cotton. Care should be taken as it can become invasive in suitable climates outside its native range.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Vine
  • Height: 20-25 feet
  • Width: 15-20 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: White
  • Flowering Season: Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Medium, High
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Fragrant, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Showy Flowers

Natural Habitat

Rocky slopes and open woodlands in Southeastern Africa

Other Names

Common Names: Sweet

Scientific Names: , Ipomoea albivenia, Convolvulus albivenius, Ipomoea gerrardiana, Ipomoea gerrardii, Ipomoea wakefieldii, Kolofonia albinervia,

GBIF Accepted Name: Ipomoea albivenia (Lindl.) Sweet