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This tender tuberous perennial with heart-shaped, lobed, almost black leaves bears trumpet-shaped lavender to pale-purple flowers. It is excellent in containers or weaving among other plants in beds and borders.
Noteworthy CharacteristicsSeeds are highly toxic if ingested.
CareGrow in moderately fertile, well-drained soil in full sun. Shelter from cold, drying winds. Provide support, or use as a ground cover. 'Blackie' is usually grown as an annual.
PropagationSow seed in spring after chipping them or soaking them in water for 24 hours. Root softwood cuttings in spring or summer, or semi-ripe cuttings in summer.
ProblemsWhite blister, rust, fungal leaf spots, stem rot, thread blight, charcoal rot, and wilt
Fine Gardening Recommended Products
Hunter Industries MP-1000-90 Hunter Nozzle
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- Double-pop technology flushes the nozzle during start-up and shutdown to prevent clogging
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Nelson Multi-Pattern Stationary Sprinkler
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- Impact-resistant, plastic base
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D&X Garden Sprinkler
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- 12 flexible nozzles that you can set in any direction, simply bend hoses to customize new watering patterns - 360 degree coverage of 3000 sq. ft area
- 3.5 x 4 x 6 inches
- Genus : Ipomoea
- Zones : 11
- Moisture : Adaptable
- Bloom Time : Fall, Summer
- Light : Full Sun
- Uses : Ground Covers
- Growth Rate : Moderate
- Flower Color : Red
- Characteristics : Showy Foliage
- Plant Seasonal Interest : Summer Interest
- Plant Type : Vines
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