Ipomoea × multifida
| Ipomoea × multifida | |
|---|---|
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Scientific classification 
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| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Clade: | Tracheophytes |
| Clade: | Angiosperms |
| Clade: | Eudicots |
| Clade: | Asterids |
| Order: | Solanales |
| Family: | Convolvulaceae |
| Genus: | Ipomoea |
| Species: | I. × multifida
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| Binomial name | |
| Ipomoea × multifida (Raf.) Shinners
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Ipomoea × multifida is a hybridogenic species of flowering plant in the family Convolvulaceae. It is a naturally occurring hybrid between I. coccinea and I. quamoclit (the cypress vine). This hybrid is commonly known as the cardinal climber due to its bright red flowers and vigorous climbing habit.[1]
Description
[edit]Ipomoea × multifida is a fast-growing, twining vine that can reach lengths of up to 3–4 meters (10–13 feet). It produces deeply lobed leaves resembling those of I. quamoclit and trumpet-shaped, bright red flowers similar to I. coccinea. The plant is known for attracting hummingbirds and other pollinators.
Taxonomy and Hybridization
[edit]The species is an interspecific hybrid between Ipomoea coccinea and Ipomoea quamoclit. Due to its hybrid origin, it exhibits characteristics of both parent species, including leaf shape, flower morphology, and growth habit.[2]
Its allotetraploid form is Ipomoea sloteri, which was developed through further hybridization and chromosome doubling. Both I. × multifida and I. sloteri are commonly referred to as cardinal climbers.[3]
Cultivation
[edit]Ipomoea × multifida is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant for its vibrant flowers and climbing ability. It prefers full sun, well-drained soil, and warm temperatures. It is often grown on trellises, fences, or arbors and is known to reseed readily in suitable climates.[4]
References
[edit]- ^ "Ipomoea \u00d7 multifida Taxonomy Detail". USDA Agricultural Research Service. Retrieved March 2, 2025.
- ^ "Ipomoea \u00d7 multifida". USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service. Retrieved March 2, 2025.
- ^ "Cardinal Climber (Ipomoea \u00d7 multifida)". Missouri Botanical Garden. Retrieved March 2, 2025.
- ^ Brickell, Christopher (2004). The American Horticultural Society A-Z Encyclopedia of Garden Plants. DK Publishing.