Moon Vine
Ipomoea alba L.
Moon vine produces spectacular fragrant white flowers that open at dusk and remain open through the night. Native to tropical Americas, these nocturnal bloomers symbolize mystery, romance, and the magic of moonlit gardens.
Convolvulaceae (Morning Glory family)
Mid-summer through fall (July-November), flowers open at dusk
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Similar flowers: night jessamines and moonflowers also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
Moon vines hold special significance as one of the most dramatic nocturnal bloomers. The flowers open rapidly at dusk in a spectacular display, remaining fragrant through the night to attract sphinx moths. Ancient Mesoamerican civilizations used the plant to vulcanize rubber thousands of years before modern methods. The moonflower has become a symbol of night gardens and evening enchantment.Shop Our Floral Collection
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Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; needs at least 6 hours of sun for best flowering
Water
Moderate; consistent moisture during growing season, less in winter
Soil
Well-drained, Moist, Humus-rich, Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0-7.0)
Expert Growing Tips
Provide sturdy support for twining stems
Nick seeds or soak overnight before planting to improve germination
Grows as perennial in zones 9-11, annual elsewhere
Flowers open in evening and close by mid-morning
Self-seeds readily in warm climates
Bring containers indoors before first frost in cold areas
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Night gardens and evening landscapes
- Arbors, trellises, and pergolas
- Fences and vertical structures
- Containers and hanging baskets
- Pollinator gardens (attracts night-flying moths)
Traditional Uses
- Seeds historically studied for natural compounds
- Used in Mesoamerican civilizations to process rubber latex
- Leaves used in some traditional medicines
- Note: Seeds contain compounds similar to LSA but in low concentrations
Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals before using any plant medicinally.
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Moon Vine
when do moonflowers open
Moonflowers open rapidly at dusk, typically around sunset or early evening. The flowers remain open all night and close by mid-morning the following day.
are moonflowers fragrant
Yes, moonflowers are highly fragrant with a sweet, jasmine-like scent that intensifies in the evening to attract night-flying moths for pollination.
are moonflowers perennials
Moonflowers are perennials in USDA zones 9-11 but are typically grown as annuals in cooler climates where they die back after frost.
how fast do moon vines grow
Moon vines are vigorous growers that can reach 10-15 feet in a single growing season, with some achieving up to 30 feet in ideal tropical conditions.
what pollinates moonflowers
Moonflowers are primarily pollinated by night-flying sphinx moths (also called hawk moths) that are attracted to the fragrant white flowers and feed on their nectar.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
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Explore More Beautiful Flowers
Discover other flowers with similar meanings, characteristics, or cultural significance.
Night Jessamine
Cestrum nocturnum L.
Night jessamine produces small creamy-white tubular flowers that open at dusk, releasing an intensely sweet fragrance throughout the night. Native to the West Indies and Central America, these nocturnal blooms symbolize mystery, romance, and the enchantment of evening gardens.
Moonflower
Ipomoea alba
Moonflower is a fast-growing night-blooming vine with large, fragrant white flowers that open at dusk and close at dawn, creating a magical evening garden display.
Cestrum
Cestrum nocturnum
Cestrum is a night-blooming shrub with intensely fragrant white flowers that open at dusk. It symbolizes mystery, romance, and the hidden beauty that emerges in darkness.