Moonflower

Scientific Name: Ipomoea alba

USDA Hardiness Zones: 8 to 11  (grows as an annual in cooler climates)

Approximate number of seeds per gram (ounce) : 4 (110)

Sun: full sun

Water: keep soil moderately moist during germination, do not overwater

Soil: cover with 1/4 inch of soil, use average to poor, well-drained soil, mildly acidic soil

Temperature: 21 to 24 degrees Celsius (70 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit)

Spacing: 12 to 15 inches apart once seedlings reach 3 inches in length.

Germination Time: about 14 days

The moonflower grows on a vine and produce large, fragrant white blooms.  Its name comes from the fact that the flowers open after sunset and close at the break of dawn.  The blooms can be up to five inches in diameter and the vines grow up to 20 feet in length.  Moonflowers should be planted near a post or trellis so that they have support.  Germination may be aided by scarifying the seeds with a file or sandpaper and soaking overnight prior to sowing.