What Is a Moonflower?

A moonflower is a type of flowering plant known for its large, fragrant blossoms that open in the evening and glow under moonlight. The term “moonflower” commonly refers to several night-blooming species in the Ipomoea genus, which is part of the morning glory family. These flowers are native to warm regions in the Americas and have been cherished for centuries for their beauty and symbolism.

The most well-known species is Ipomoea alba, a fast-growing vine that can reach up to 15 feet or more in one growing season. It produces heart-shaped leaves and trumpet-shaped white flowers that can measure up to six inches across. True to its name, the moonflower blooms at dusk, unfurling its petals as the sun sets and closing again by the next morning. This nocturnal behavior is an evolutionary adaptation to attract nighttime pollinators like moths.

Moonflowers are popular in gardens for their dramatic appearance and pleasant scent. Many gardeners plant them near porches, trellises, or fences where their evening performance can be fully appreciated. The flowers are sensitive to temperature and light, so in colder climates, moonflowers are usually grown as annuals. In warmer regions, they can be perennial.

In addition to their ornamental value, moonflowers hold cultural and spiritual significance in various traditions. Their nighttime bloom is often seen as a symbol of mystery, femininity, and transformation. Some Native American communities also have legends and stories associated with moonflowers, particularly those growing in desert canyon areas like Moab, Utah.

Interestingly, there is also a geographic connection to the name “Moonflower” in the American Southwest. For instance, Moonflower Canyon near Moab is named for the abundant Datura plants that grow in the area. Although not true moonflowers, Datura, also known as sacred datura or jimsonweed, are night-blooming plants with similar luminous white flowers. However, Datura is toxic and has hallucinogenic properties, so it should not be confused with the garden variety moonflower vine.

Whether in folklore, gardens, or red rock canyons, the moonflower captures our imagination as a symbol of beauty that blooms in darkness.