The Moonflower (Ipomoea alba) is a vigorous, night-blooming vine known for its huge, fragrant, white trumpet-shaped flowers that unfurl at dusk. These blooms are followed by seed pods containing the plant’s next generation. Understanding the appearance of these seeds is important for correct identification, whether collecting them from your own plant or purchasing them for planting.
Distinct Physical Characteristics of the Seed
Moonflower seeds are notable for their large size, which immediately sets them apart from the seeds of many other vining annuals. A single seed typically measures between 10 to 12 millimeters in length and 8 to 9 millimeters in width, making them easy to handle.
The shape of the seed is best described as large, blocky, and nearly round, often featuring a slight angularity or wedge-like appearance. They possess a hard outer shell, or seed coat, which is a protective layer requiring scarification or soaking for successful germination. This durable coat helps the seed survive in harsh conditions.
The color of a mature, viable Ipomoea alba seed ranges across light neutral tones. They are found in shades of pale beige, light tan, or cream. The light brown or tan hues are most common for this variety when properly dried. Their surface is smooth, dull, or slightly textured, offering no distinct markings.
Locating and Harvesting the Seed Pods
The seeds are contained within a seed pod that develops after the flower has been successfully pollinated. Initially, these pods are small, firm, and green, often adopting a teardrop or globe shape on the vine. The pod must remain on the vine through the end of the growing season to allow the seeds inside to fully mature and dry.
The correct time for harvesting is indicated by a noticeable change in the pod’s physical state, signaling the seeds are ripe. The pod will transition from green and fleshy to a dry, brittle, and papery brown or tan color. The pod will also begin to rattle when gently shaken, a clear sign that the seeds inside have separated from the capsule walls.
It is important to collect the pods just as they begin to dry and before they naturally split open, which the plant does to scatter its seeds. Once fully dry, each pod can be carefully cracked open to reveal the seeds nestled within the interior chambers. A typical pod usually contains about four large seeds, which can then be extracted for planting or storage.
Proper Storage and Viability
Once the seeds are removed from their dried pods, they require a drying period to ensure all residual moisture is gone before long-term storage. Laying the seeds out in a single layer on a paper towel or screen for up to a week in a warm, dry location is recommended for this curing process. This step prevents mold and fungal growth, which can quickly ruin the entire batch.
After they are completely dry, the seeds should be stored in a breathable container, such as a paper envelope or a small paper bag, rather than an airtight plastic bag. Paper allows any slight traces of moisture to escape, maintaining a dry environment around the seed coat. Labeling the container with the date and plant variety is a good practice for tracking inventory.
The ideal storage location is a cool, dark place where temperatures remain consistent and freezing is avoided, such as a closet or basement. When stored under these consistent, dry conditions, Moonflower seeds remain viable for successful planting for at least two years. Regularly checking the stored seeds for any signs of mold or deterioration ensures the best chance for a successful planting season the following year.