Convolvulaceae

What are the differences between morning glories (Ipomoea nil) and star morning glories (Ipomoea purpurea)? We'll explain how to distinguish between these similar species!

Both Ipomoea purpurea and Ipomoea purpurea belong to the Ipomoea genus of the Convolvulaceae family and are introduced species that have naturalized in Japan. They share the characteristics of small corollas and a star shape when viewed from above. They can be seen in urban areas, but they may be confused with each other. However, there is an easy-to-understand difference in the color of the flowers...

2025.05.13

plant

What are the differences between morning glories, round-leaved morning glories, wild morning glories, and American morning glories? We'll explain how to distinguish between similar varieties! The origins of Japanese morning glories are shrouded in mystery!?

Morning glories (Ipomoea nil), round-leaved morning glories, wild morning glories, and American morning glories all belong to the Ipomoea genus of the Convolvulaceae family. Among the varieties with "morning glory" in their name, they are particularly popular for their large corolla diameter (over 3 cm) and are widely cultivated as ornamental plants. While they are very popular, there is considerable individual variation between varieties...

2024.07.10

plant

What are the differences between morning glory, small morning glory, beach morning glory, and European morning glory? An explanation of how to distinguish between similar species.

Morning glory, small morning glory, beach morning glory, and European morning glory are all climbing perennial plants belonging to the Convolvulaceae family. They are relatively small compared to other members of the Convolvulaceae family and are easy to find. Morning glory and small morning glory, in particular, twine around street trees and fences even in urban areas, blooming in countless numbers...

2024.03.12

plant

What are the differences between Ipomoea quamoclit, Ipomoea quamoclit, Ipomoea quamoclit, and Ipomoea quamoclit? We'll explain how to distinguish between similar species! What are the structures of their flowers and fruits?

Ipomoea quamoclit, Ipomoea quamoclit, Ipomoea quamoclit, and Ipomoea quamoclit all belong to the Ipomoea genus of the Convolvulaceae family. These climbing annuals, native to tropical America, were cultivated as ornamental plants in Japan and have since become naturalized...

2023.08.12

plant

What are the differences between Angelica keiskei, Angelica pubescens, and Angelica japonica? We'll explain how to distinguish between similar species! What are the structures of their flowers and fruits?

Angelica keiskei, Angelica pubescens, and Angelica japonica all belong to the Angelica genus of the Apiaceae family and are medium to large perennial herbs with thick stems and broad leaves. They all share similar leaf, flower, and fruit structures, characteristic of the Apiaceae family. Furthermore, the swollen, sac-like base of the petiole and the flattened fruit are typical features of this group...

2023.08.08

plant

What are the differences between Solanum lyratum, Solanum sarmentosum, Solanum sarmentosum, and Solanum jasminoides? We'll explain how to distinguish between similar species! What are the structures of their flowers and fruits?

Solanum lyratum, Solanum sarmentosum, Solanum japonica, and Solanum jasminoides all belong to the Solanaceae family and are four species that share the characteristic of being "climbing plants." Their basic flower and fruit structures are the same, which is why they are often confused. However, these four species have clear differences...

2023.08.06

plant

What are the differences between Tatsunamisou, Kobano-tatsunamisou, Okata-tatsunamisou, and Namikisou? We explain how to distinguish between similar species! Do bees like the flowers? And are raindrops important for the fruit?!

Scutellaria indica, Scutellaria baicalensis, Scutellaria japonica, and Scutellaria verna all belong to the genus Scutellaria in the Lamiaceae family. They are often confused in horticulture, and because they frequently grow in forest edges and on the forest floor, their large, swollen corollas are similar in shape, making them difficult to distinguish by observation alone. The genus Scutellaria includes...

2023.05.18

plant

What are the differences between goji berries (Lycium chinense) and Elaeagnus umbellata (Elaeagnus umbellata)? Can they be eaten raw? How are they prepared? What kinds of insects visit the flowers?

Goji berries (Lycium chinense) and Elaeagnus umbellata (Elaeagnus umbellata) share the common characteristic of producing delicious red berries in the summer. However, their botanical characteristics are quite different. While the leaves and flowers are the most reliable way to distinguish between them, there are also differences in the fruit stalks. Goji berries can be eaten raw, but they have a "fishy smell...".

2021.09.20

plant