Hanging Blue my Mind
Plant Overview
Hanging Blue My Mind (Evolvulus ‘Blue My Mind’), also known as Dwarf Morning Glory, is a beautiful flowering plant prized for its brilliant sky-blue blooms, soft silvery-green foliage, and graceful trailing growth habit. Its delicate, funnel-shaped flowers create a vibrant display against the plant's textured leaves, bringing refreshing color to hanging baskets, patios, porches, and outdoor living spaces. Exceptionally tolerant of heat and humidity, Blue My Mind thrives in Florida's warm climate and produces abundant flowers throughout the growing season. Its naturally spreading, cascading stems make it an excellent choice for decorative hanging baskets, while its drought tolerance and minimal maintenance requirements appeal to gardeners seeking long-lasting seasonal color.
Key Plant Characteristics
-
Botanical Name: Evolvulus ‘Blue My Mind’ (cultivar ‘USEVO1201’)
-
Common Names: Blue My Mind, Dwarf Morning Glory
-
Mature Height: Approximately 4–8 inches
-
Mature Spread: 8–16 inches, with stems trailing up to approximately 12 inches
-
Growth Rate: Moderate to fast-growing
-
Growth Habit: Compact, mounding, spreading, and trailing
-
Foliage: Small, soft, silvery-green leaves with a slightly fuzzy texture
-
Flowers: Vibrant, sky-blue, funnel-shaped blooms with pale centers
-
Blooming Season: Spring through fall, with extended flowering possible in frost-free conditions
-
USDA Hardiness Zones: 9–11 for perennial growth; commonly grown as an annual in colder climates
-
Sunlight Requirements: Full sun
-
Special Features: Heat-tolerant, drought-tolerant once established, continuous blooming, and excellent for hanging baskets and containers
Plant Care Guide
-
Sunlight: Place the hanging basket in full sun, providing at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Blue My Mind thrives in bright, sunny locations and performs exceptionally well during Florida's hot summers. Insufficient sunlight may reduce flowering and result in less compact growth.
-
Watering: Water thoroughly after planting and maintain consistent moisture during establishment. Once established, allow the upper layer of potting mix to dry slightly between waterings. Although drought-tolerant, Blue My Mind produces healthier growth and more abundant flowers with regular watering. Avoid prolonged waterlogged conditions.
-
Soil: Prefers lightweight, well-draining potting mix that allows excess moisture to escape easily. Good drainage is especially important during Florida's rainy season to prevent root-related problems.
-
Fertilizing: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer during active growth to support healthy foliage and continuous flowering. Occasional supplemental feeding may benefit container-grown plants, but avoid excessive fertilization.
-
Pruning: Minimal pruning is required. Lightly trim trailing stems as needed to maintain a full, attractive shape and encourage branching. Deadheading is unnecessary because Blue My Mind naturally produces new flowers throughout the growing season.
-
Cold Protection: Blue My Mind thrives in warm temperatures but is sensitive to frost. Move hanging baskets to a protected location when freezing weather is expected, particularly in North and Central Florida.
-
Pests & Diseases: Generally resistant to serious pest problems, although aphids, spider mites, or other common container pests may occasionally appear. Maintain good air circulation and avoid consistently saturated soil to reduce the risk of fungal diseases and root rot.
-
Additional Care Tips: Hang the basket where its cascading stems have room to spread naturally. Rotate periodically for balanced sunlight exposure and check soil moisture regularly during hot, windy weather. The bright blue flowers typically open during sunny conditions and close in the evening or during cloudy weather, with fresh blooms appearing regularly.