How to Grow Sky Blue
Wikimedia Commons
Sky Blue
Evolvulus glomeratus
flowerSky Blue is a trailing ornamental flower with delicate, sky-blue blooms and fine, thread-like foliage. This low-growing plant produces masses of small, morning glory-like flowers throughout the growing season. It's an excellent choice for hanging baskets, containers, and ground cover applications.
When should you plant Sky Blue in your zone?
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Example Sky Blue timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Sky Blue
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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First Sky Blue blooms
Around May 17≈ 30 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Sky Blue dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 9b-11; grown as annual in cooler climates
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Seedling
1-2 weeksTiny seedlings emerge with cotyledons and develop thread-like true leaves
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Provide bright light and warm temperatures (70-75°F). Thin or transplant when 2-3 inches tall
Vegetative
2-4 weeksPlant develops trailing stems with fine, narrow foliage; no flowers yet
Ensure full sun exposure. Pinch back growing tips to encourage bushier growth if desired. Continue regular watering and fertilizing every 2-3 weeks with diluted balanced fertilizer
Flowering
2-3 months or until frostSmall, delicate sky-blue flowers appear in clusters along the trailing stems
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming. Maintain consistent watering and weekly or bi-weekly fertilizing with a slightly higher phosphorus formulation (e.g., 5-10-5)
Peak Production
2-4 monthsPlant produces abundant flowers covering much of the foliage; cascading form is most ornamental
Continue deadheading and fertilizing. Provide afternoon shade in extremely hot climates (above 95°F) to prevent flower stress. Monitor for pests and disease
Decline/End of Season
Until frost or year-round in zones 10-11In areas with frost, foliage begins to fade; flowers diminish as temperatures cool
In warm zones, plant may persist; reduce watering and fertilizing. In frost-prone areas, allow to finish or remove when killed by frost. Save cuttings for propagation if desired
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with water to dislodge; use insecticidal soap or neem oil if severe. Increase humidity
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Use sticky traps; spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Isolate affected plants
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Spray with 70% isopropyl alcohol on affected areas; use neem oil or insecticidal soap for larger infestations
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Reduce overwatering; allow soil surface to dry between waterings. Use sticky traps and sand topping on soil
Uses
Ornamental Container Display
CraftSky Blue is ideal for hanging baskets, window boxes, and mixed container gardens where its trailing habit creates cascading blue flowers. Its delicate appearance adds airiness and charm to patios, decks, and indoor spaces. [source]
Ground Cover and Landscape Edging
HouseholdThe low, spreading growth habit makes Sky Blue excellent for edging beds, covering slopes, and filling large areas with color in warm climates. It creates a soft, cottage-garden aesthetic with minimal maintenance. [source]
Pollinator Support
WildlifeThe small flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, supporting garden pollinator populations. As a continuous bloomer, it provides nectar throughout the growing season. [source]
Edible Flower Garnish
CulinarySky Blue flowers are edible and can be used as a delicate, colorful garnish for salads, desserts, and beverages. Ensure the plant has not been treated with pesticides before consuming. [source]
Traditional Herbal Use
MedicinalEvolvulus species have been used in traditional South American and Asian medicine to support cognitive function and mental clarity. Research is ongoing regarding its bioactive compounds and efficacy. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Sky Blue is an ornamental flower and is not harvested for food. Deadhead spent flowers regularly by pinching or cutting off wilted blooms to encourage continuous flowering. Cuttings can be taken in late summer for propagation; root them in moist soil or water over 2-3 weeks
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Sky Blue is native to South America and is sometimes called 'Dwarf Morning Glory' due to its morning glory-like flowers, though it blooms during the day
- 🌱 The plant's scientific name, Evolvulus, comes from the Latin 'evolvere,' meaning 'to unfold,' referring to the way its flowers open and unfold
- 🌱 Sky Blue is known as 'Poranoi' in some traditional South American cultures, where it has been used for centuries in herbal remedies
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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