How to Grow Calonyction Plants in your Garden

Gardener's HQ Guide to Growing Moonflower

Members of the Calonyction genus are climbing vines.

They have heart shaped leaves and trumpet shaped flowers of purple or white.

They flower at night from the middle of summer until the first frost of winter.

They are also known as Moonflower and Bona nox.

Calonyction Growing Guide and Facts

Common Names: Moonflower, Bona nox.
Family: Convolvulaceae.
Life Cycle: Half hardy perennial usually grown as a half hardy annual by gardeners.
Height: 100 to 120 inches (250 to 300 cm).
Native: Tropics and Subtropics.

How to Grow Moonflower (Calonyction)

If planning to grow Calonyction outdoors then it is best to sow out the moonflower seed after the last frost of spring; simply cover the seeds.

When growing moonflowers as seedlings indoors then the process should be started about eight weeks before they are due to be planted out.

Calonyction should be sown into peat pots. First soak the seeds overnight and chip them, then germinate at about 22°C for about two weeks.

Seedlings should be planted out with a spacing of around 20 to 30 cm into a sunny or partially shaded area of the garden; the soil type is not important.

Caring for Calonyction

Climbing Calonyction vines such as moonflowers require a support such as a trellis that they can climb on.

They should be frequently watered when growing.

Common Questions

How many members does the Calonyction genus have?

The Calonyction genus, often included in Ipomoea, includes a few species. The best known is Calonyction aculeatum (Moonflower).

Do members of Calonyction make a good garden or landscaping plant?

Yes, Calonyction, particularly the Moonflower, is a great climber for fences, trellises, or walls, with its large, night-blooming flowers.

Which Calonyction species are most frequently grown by gardeners?

The most frequently grown is Calonyction aculeatum (Moonflower), appreciated for its large, fragrant, white blooms that open at night.

Are members of the Calonyction plant genus fragrant?

Yes, the Moonflower (Calonyction aculeatum) has fragrant blooms that open in the evening and emit a sweet scent.

What is the perfect location to grow Calonyction?

Calonyction prefers a sunny location with well-drained soil. It's an excellent choice for vertical spaces in the garden.

Is Calonyction invasive in the USA?

Currently, Calonyction species are not considered invasive in the USA. They can spread in favorable conditions but are generally manageable.

How do I remove Calonyction plants from my garden?

To remove Calonyction, cut the vines back and dig up the roots. Monitor the area for regrowth as seeds can remain in the soil.

Summary

The Calonyction genus, part of the Convolvulaceae family, is native to tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas. The most recognized species, Calonyction aculeatum, also known as moonflower, is a vine recognized for its large, fragrant, night-blooming white flowers.

To cultivate Calonyction, plant them in a sunny to partially shaded location with well-drained soil. They can be grown from seeds sown in the spring. Regular watering is necessary. They're climbers and need support to grow. They're often used in trellises, pergolas, or fences, providing fragrant, night-time blooms that attract moths.

I hope that you enjoyed this guide on Calonyction. You may also enjoy the following Gardener's HQ growing guides: How to grow Ipomoea and Passiflora plants.