Sweet Caroline Medusa™ Black Ornamental Sweet Potato Vine (Ipomoea)

(Sweet Potato Vine) If you're looking for dramatic foliage that transforms containers and landscapes, Proven Winners® Sweet Caroline Medusa™ Black Sweet Potato Vine is a must-have. This vigorous annual is grown not for flowers, but for its bold, deeply dark purple-black leaves with a unique, thread-like texture that gives it a striking, almost sculptural presence. Its trailing to mounding habit reaches 6–12 inches tall and can spread or cascade up to 24–36 inches, making it perfect as a spiller in hanging baskets, large planters, or as groundcover in sunny beds. This ipomoea thrives in full sun to part sun, where its foliage develops the richest color. It pairs beautifully with blooming annuals, acting as a dramatic backdrop to brighten flowers. Plant in well-drained soil, as soggy conditions can stress the roots. Though it rarely flowers, the foliage provides continuous seasonal interest until frost. Feed with a slow-release fertilizer at planting or supplement with water-soluble plant food every 2–3 weeks to maintain vigorous growth and strong color. With its edgy form and rich tones, Sweet Caroline Medusa™ Black adds depth, contrast, and texture wherever it's planted.