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Railroad Vine
Ipomoea pes-caprae
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| Railroad Vine is a native coastal plant that,
like Sea Oats, helps to prevent beach erosion. |
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Leaves
Railroad vine's Leathery green 4-inch leaves
are carried on 6-inch petioles. They are two-lobed and look more heart-shaped than the
leaves of its near relative the Beach Morning Glory.
Flowers
Pink to lavender, funnel-like flowers open in the morning and only one time each.
However, the flowers appear year-round, peaking from May till November.
Fruit
The fruit is brown, and in the form
of 1/2 inch pods that each contain four seeds
Stems
Flexible, thick stems root at the
nodes.
Propagation
Railroad Vine propagates quickly from
cuttings and also from seed.
Landscape usage
Railroad Vine is highly resistant to heat, salt, wind, and poor, sandy soils. It
makes a terrific groundcover for those coastal backyard sand patches that nothing seems to
grow on. It can also be used to prevent erosion on barren slopes or dunes.
Interesting Facts
The Carib Indians used railroad vine
in ritual baths to alleviate evil spells. The juice from the succulent leaves has been
used as a first aid to treat jellyfish stings. |
Railroad Vine
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Summary
Type: Groundcover/ Vine
Salt Tolerant: High
Height: 6 inches
Spread: 100 ft +
Growth Rate: Fast
Light: Full Sun
Water: Low
Hardiness: High
Native: Yes
Wildlife: Yes
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For more detailed information on this
plant go to:
Volusia Extension |
