Sweet Potato - Margurite

Plant Type: annual vine (tender perennial in frost-free climates)
Plant Height: 6–12 inches (foliage); trailing up to 3–6 feet
Spread: 3–6 feet
Flower Color: lavender to light purple (infrequent)
Sun Exposure: Full sun, Partial Shade

Sweet Potato Vine ‘Marguerite’ (Ipomoea batatas ‘Marguerite’): Bright Chartreuse Foliage for Bold Contrast

Sweet Potato Vine ‘Marguerite’ is grown primarily for its vibrant, chartreuse-green foliage that spills beautifully over containers, hanging baskets, and garden beds. With its fast growth, trailing habit, and striking color, it’s perfect for adding a pop of brightness to Arizona landscapes and seasonal plantings.

Key Features of Sweet Potato Vine ‘Marguerite’

• Brilliant Foliage: Heart-shaped leaves in vivid chartreuse provide bold contrast against darker plants.
• Fast-Growing & Versatile: Spreads quickly as a groundcover or trails elegantly from pots.
• Low Maintenance: Grows easily with minimal care in warm weather.
• Heat Tolerant: Thrives in summer heat with adequate water.

Growing and Care Tips

This ornamental sweet potato vine is grown for its foliage rather than edible tubers.

Soil: Prefers fertile, well-draining soil; adapts to containers and garden beds.
Water: Water regularly to keep soil evenly moist; avoid prolonged drought for best foliage color.
Fertilizer: Apply a balanced fertilizer monthly during the growing season for vigorous growth.
Pruning: Trim back as needed to control size or refresh foliage.

Landscaping Uses

• Containers & Hanging Baskets: Perfect for spilling over edges in mixed arrangements.
• Groundcover: Quickly covers bare spots in warm-season gardens.
• Borders: Adds bright edging along walkways and flower beds.
• Color Contrast: Works well with deep purple, red, and blue-flowering plants.

Summary

Sweet Potato Vine ‘Marguerite’ is a heat-loving, fast-growing ornamental vine that delivers eye-catching chartreuse foliage all season. It’s an excellent choice for adding texture, trailing form, and vibrant color to any summer display.

Three Timbers Installation Guide (Feel Free to Follow): Sweet Potato Vine ‘Marguerite’

Planting Guide:

Location: Full sun for most vibrant foliage; partial shade in hottest climates to reduce leaf scorch.
Soil: Fertile, well-draining soil.
Spacing: Space 12–18 inches apart for groundcover; closer for container arrangements.
Planting Depth: Set at same depth as in nursery container.
Support: Not needed—plants trail or sprawl naturally.

Watering Guide:

Watering After Planting:

• Initial Watering: Water thoroughly after planting to settle soil.
• Frequency: Every 2–3 days for the first 2–3 weeks.
• Watering Amount: Enough to moisten soil 6–8 inches deep.

When is the Plant Established?

• Generally after 3–4 weeks in warm weather.

Watering Once Established:

• Summer: Water every 4–7 days, depending on heat and soil type.
• Winter: Typically treated as an annual in cold climates; in frost-free areas, reduce watering during cool months.

Drip Irrigation Setup:

Placement of Emitters: For containers, place emitter at soil surface near base; for groundcover, use 1–2 emitters per plant.
Flow Rate: 1 gallon per hour for in-ground; adjust for container size.
Number of Emitters: One for small plants; two for vigorous spreads.
Adjusting Frequency: Increase in peak summer heat; reduce in cooler or cloudy weather.

General Watering Tips for Sweet Potato Vine ‘Marguerite’:

• Soil Check: Keep evenly moist but not soggy.
• Avoid Prolonged Drought: Leaf scorch and decline may occur if left dry too long.
• Mulch: Use organic mulch to help retain moisture in garden beds.