Vine
Sweet Potato Vine
Ipomoea batatas
Proven Winners® varieties
Traits
Varieties We Carry
Dwarf MargueriteIpomoea batatasYellowIpomoea batatasBlackieIpomoea batatas
Sizes & Pricing
1 galProven WinnersFrom$6.95
3 galFrom$14.95
Fresh this week. Last restocked Mar 11.
LightFull Sun
WaterModerate
Mature size12-18 inches × 3-6+ feet (spreading vines)
About Sweet Potato Vine
Sweet Potato Vine (Ipomoea batatas) is a fast-growing tropical vine cultivated both as an edible crop for its starchy tubers and as a popular ornamental for its bold foliage in shades of chartreuse, bronze, purple, and variegated. The ornamental cultivars spread quickly as ground cover or cascade from containers, with heart-shaped or deeply lobed leaves. Starting at $6.95.
Plant details
- Bloom Season
- Summer, Fall
- Flower Color
- Non-flowering
- Growth Rate
- Fast
- Foliage
- Herbaceous perennial
- Soil
- Sandy, Loam, Well-drained
Best planting months
Recommended forZone 9b · St. Augustine, FL
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This monthGood windowOther months
Seasonal care
Good planting window.
Bloom season.
Bloom season. Ideal planting window.
Retains foliage through winter.
Care essentials
Light
Sweet potato vine grows best in full sun but tolerates partial shade. In NE Florida's intense summer heat, some afternoon shade helps prevent leaf scorch, though foliage color is most vivid in full sun.
Water
Water regularly to maintain even soil moisture, especially during establishment and hot summer months. The plant will wilt noticeably when thirsty and recovers quickly after watering. Reduce frequency in cooler months.
Soil & Fertilizer
Thrives in Florida's sandy, well-drained soil. Incorporate compost at planting to improve moisture retention. Apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer in spring; avoid excess nitrogen, which promotes foliage over tubers.
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Common questions
Is Sweet Potato Vine a good plant for St. Augustine?
Sweet Potato Vine is a vine for Zone 9b coastal Florida gardens, reaching 12-18 inches × 3-6+ feet (spreading vines).
Care information verified from
Last reviewed February 2026. Our care guidance comes from trusted horticulture sources and decades of helping St. Augustine gardeners. Conditions here can vary dramatically from one area to the next, so come ask us and we'll tailor it to your yard.