Belonging to the Convolvulaceae family, the Ipomoea albivenia goes by the common name Wild Cotton. The other popular names include Wildekatoen and Climbing Kapok. A native of Kenya & Zimbabwe S. Africa, this wild cotton plant grows and blooms in full sun exposure to semi-shade. It is a fast-growing succulent growing up to 10 meters long. The slender young stem becomes woody when adult, while the foliage has an ovate lamina. In winter, the showy plant blooms to bear funnel-shaped white, cream, or yellowish flowers.Growth RateIpomoea albivenia is a vine that grows fast.FloweringThe houseplant produces fragrant funnel-shaped pretty flowers in white, cream, or yellow during winters, the blooming season.Watering and FeedingThis plant requires abundant water. So, ensure that the soil is never dry. However, abstain from overwatering.SoilThe soil for the wild cotton plant should be well-drained. The best is to use cactus mix potting soil. HardinessThe hardiness zone of the Ipomoea albivenia is 8b to 11. It is frost-hardy 15°F to 40°F (-9.4°C to 4.5°C).LightThis plant needs full sun to semi-shade for the best growth.PropagationSeed propagation is an optimal way to propagate the wild cotton plant.The wild cotton species gets its name from the Greek language, which means woodworm or white-veined because the heart-shaped leaves are velvety white when young. Also, the white flowers open only at night because they are moth pollinated.
