Ipomoea cairica aka Railroad Creeper

Taxonomy ID: 11164

Ipomoea cairica, also known as the mile-a-minute vine Messina creeper, Cairo morning glory, coast morning glory, and railroad creeper, is a vining, herbaceous, perennial plant with palmate leaves and large, showy white to lavender flowers. It is a species of morning glory that is a fast-growing vine and spreads easily by seed and stem fragments. It has been widely introduced as a garden ornamental across tropical, subtropical, and temperate regions. The species name cairica translates to "from Cairo", the city where this species was first collected. Mile-a-Minute Vine is a vigorous, perennial climber that thrives in long-lasting, direct light and should be less than 1 foot from a window. It likes well-draining soil and should be watered regularly. Supplementing with a gentle, organic fertilizer throughout the peak growing season can also be beneficial.

Common names

Railroad Creeper, Railway Creeper, Mile A Minute

More information about Railroad Creeper

How difficult is it to take care of Railroad Creeper

Railroad Creeper presents a moderate level of care, which allows plant enthusiasts with some experience to expand their skills and knowledge.

What is the region of origin of Railroad Creeper

Railroad Creeper’s native range is Worldwide.

What are the water needs for Railroad Creeper

Railroad Creeper should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

What is the right soil for Railroad Creeper

Railroad Creeper loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

What is the sunlight requirement for Railroad Creeper

Railroad Creeper thrives in bright and direct sunlight. To ensure your plant receives enough light to survive, place it less than one foot from a window. The current weather in your area may affect the placement in your home. For example, if you live in a region that has longer and more intense periods of sunlight, then you may want to place the plant farther away from the window to avoid direct sunlight and reduce the risk of sunburn. Alternatively, if you live in a region with relatively milder temperatures and less intense sunlight, then you may be able to place the plant closer to the window for increased exposure. Ultimately, the current weather in your area should be taken into consideration when determining the best placement for your Mile A Minute.

What's the right humidity for Railroad Creeper

No additional humidity is required for the Railroad Creeper. Plants take in most of their water through their roots, not their leaves, therefore, watering the soil is the most effective way to supply humidity to your plants.

Is Railroad Creeper toxic to humans/pets?

The toxicity level of this plant has not been officially confirmed by Ploi. If there is a possibility of ingestion of plant material with an uncertain toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is advisable to seek the assistance of a medical professional.

More info:
Wikipedia