Family: Convolvulaceae

Origin, Description & Uses:
Ipomoea obscura, commonly known as obscure morning glory, is a twining vine in the morning glory family (Convolvulaceae) believed to be native to tropical regions of Africa and Asia. It is a slender, fast-growing plant with heart-shaped leaves and small, pale yellow to cream-colored funnel-shaped flowers with darker centers. Like other morning glories, it thrives in warm, sunny environments and can spread readily by seed. While not widely cultivated for ornamental purposes compared to more शोy relatives, it may occasionally be found growing in gardens or disturbed areas, and has been used in some regions in traditional medicine.

Risks & Threats:
This species is naturalized across the Hawaiian Islands (Kauaʻi, Oʻahu, Molokaʻi, Lānaʻi, Maui, and Hawaiʻi) and demonstrates traits that are cause for concern. As a vigorous climbing vine, Ipomoea obscura can smother low-growing vegetation, overtop shrubs, and compete aggressively with native plants for light, space, and nutrients. Its ability to establish quickly in disturbed sites allows it to spread into natural areas, where it may contribute to habitat degradation and reduced biodiversity. Due to these invasive characteristics, it has the potential to detrimentally impact tropical island ecosystems. It is recommended to avoid intentional cultivation of this species and instead choose low-risk or native alternatives better suited for Hawaii’s environment.

High Risk Traits:

• Broad climate suitability (sea level to 1800 m)
  
• Naturalized in tropics/subtropics, including Hawaii
  
• Agricultural weed (infests pineapple fields)
  
• Climbing/smothering growth habit
  
• Annual life cycle (rapid turnover)
  
• Intentional dispersal as ornamental
  
• Unintentional dispersal (roadsides, produce contaminant)
  
• Persistent seed bank (>1 year)

Low Risk Traits:

• No environmental weed impacts reported
  
• No spines, thorns, or burrs
  
• Palatable and non-toxic to animals (used as livestock fodder)
  
• No vegetative fragmentation (seeds only)
  
• No bird or external animal dispersal
  
• Well controlled by herbicides