Ipomoea pandurata aka Bigroot Morning Glory

Ipomoea pandurata is a perennial vine in the morning glory family. Common names include wild potato vine and man-of-the-earth. It comes from southeastern Canada and the central and eastern United States. It grows in fields, along roads, and beside streams. Its habitats range from moist ground to dry slopes. The vine loses its leaves each year and grows fast.

Garden plants reach 15–30 feet [4.57–9.14 metres] long. They spread about 3–6 feet [0.91–1.83 metres] wide. Stems twist around nearby plants or trail across open ground. They may be green or purple, with smooth or hairy surfaces. Large, starchy roots support the vine below ground. Old roots can reach 4 feet [1.22 metres] long. They may weigh 25–30 pounds. The thin, olive-green leaves grow one per node along the stems. Most have a heart shape, though some resemble a fiddle. Each leaf has a pointed tip and smooth edges.

Flowers appear from May through September. Their joined petals form white funnels with pink, red, or purple centers. The blooms attract hummingbirds and give the vine a long show. Smooth, oval seed capsules appear from July through October. Each capsule has two chambers and holds hairy seeds. Ripe capsules split open, and wind carries the seeds away. Gardeners can grow new plants from seed.

Give this vine full sun or partial shade. It grows in average soil that drains well. It accepts clay, loam, and sand, but prefers moist ground. Once roots settle in, plants can withstand some drought. Missouri Botanical Garden lists USDA zones 6–8. NC State gives a wider range of zones 3–8. Use it on fences, trellises, or structures near decks. It can also cover bare ground or grow in containers. Its roots make unwanted plants hard to remove. Remove spent flowers to limit new seedlings. Neither source reports major pest or disease trouble. The vine can host the sweet potato weevil.

Cooked roots have a history of food use. Younger roots are less bitter than old ones. Raw roots can cause strong laxative effects. Plants For A Future also notes a report of root poisoning. NC State reports vomiting and possible hallucinations after eating many seeds. Its warnings also flag risks to cats, dogs, and horses. Native Americans used roots in teas and poultices. These past uses do not establish safety for home treatment.