Red Sweet Potato Vine (Ipomoea batatas ‘Red’)

Red Sweet Potato Vine (Ipomoea batatas ‘Red’) is a vigorous trailing foliage plant prized for its rich burgundy-red leaves and fast-growing cascading habit. This heat-loving ornamental annual adds dramatic colour and texture to patio containers, hanging baskets, window boxes, and landscape beds throughout the summer season.

The large heart-shaped foliage creates bold contrast against flowering annuals such as petunias, calibrachoa, coleus, and lantana. Its vigorous trailing growth quickly fills containers and spills beautifully over edges, making it one of the most popular accent plants for mixed summer planters. Even without flowers, the vivid foliage provides strong ornamental interest and tropical appeal.

In Alberta, Red Sweet Potato Vine performs best in full sun to partial shade with fertile, well-drained soil and regular watering. Full sun encourages the deepest foliage colouring, while consistent moisture supports lush vigorous growth throughout warm Prairie summers. This fast-growing annual thrives in heat and continues performing strongly until frost.