Ipomoea indica (Burm.f.) Merr.

Horticultural & Botanical History

‘For the introduction of this splendid Ipomoea to British gardens, the lovers of floriculture have to thank Mr. Knight, nurseryman, of the King’s Road, Chelsea, through whose persevering liberality Mr. Lear, the individual after whom it is named by the above gentleman, and by whom its seeds were sent to this country, is maintained in the beautiful and fertile island of Ceylon as collector of botanical rarities.  Our present subject is the only important novelty resulting from this mission which has yet developed its flowers; but many others have subsequently arrived, which are likely to prove real acquisitions.’  [MB p.267/1839]. 

‘Every greenhouse where new plants are cultivated has been covered with the beautiful flowers of this species during the present season, and in some places it has even produced its blossoms out of doors.  It first made its appearance at Mr. Knight’s nursery in the King’s Road, where it received its specific name, having been supposed to be the produce of seeds sent from Ceylon by Mr. Lear.  It is, however, not to be found among any of the Indian species either described or occurring in the herbaria to which I have access. […] It has also been raised in the garden of the Horticultural Society from seeds sent from Buenos Ayres.’  [BR f.56/1841]. 

Introduced to Britain in 1839.  [JD].  OFG f.125/1854.  FC p.162/1840.  BF p.132/1840.  BM t.3928/1842.

History at Camden Park

Listed in the 1857 catalogue only [T.578/1857].

Notes

A common weed in parts of Australia [Beadle] but I have not seen it in the vicinity of Camden Park.