Ipomoea batatas (ornamental Sweet Potato Vine)** is a popular, fast-growing trailing annual in Fort Collins, Colorado (USDA Zone 5b).

It's the same species as edible sweet potatoes but bred for colorful foliage (chartreuse, purple/black, tricolor, etc.) rather than tasty tubers—the roots are typically bitter and not worth eating. ### Growing Conditions in Fort Collins Fort Collins has a short growing season, cool nights, and potential for late spring/early fall frosts, which doesn't perfectly match this tropical plant's preferences. - **Hardiness**: Perennial only in Zones 9–11. In Zone 5b, treat it strictly as an **annual** — it will die at the first hard frost. - **Planting time**: After all danger of frost has passed, typically late May to early June when nights stay consistently above 50°F (ideally above 55°F). Do not plant too early. - **Sun**: Full sun (6+ hours) for the brightest foliage colors. It tolerates partial shade but colors may be greener/more muted. - **Soil**: Well-draining, rich soil (slightly acidic to neutral, pH 5.5–7.0). Great in containers, hanging baskets, or as a groundcover/spiller in beds. - **Water**: Keep evenly moist, especially in containers or hot/dry Colorado weather. It’s somewhat drought-tolerant once established but wilts dramatically (and recovers quickly). ### Care Tips - **Growth habit**: Vigorous trailers that can spread 3–10+ feet. Prune or trim as needed to control size/shape — they respond well to cutting back. - **Fertilizer**: Use a balanced fertilizer or slow-release option since they’re relatively heavy feeders. - **Pests**: Generally tough, but watch for occasional aphids, spider mites, or flea beetles. - **Overwintering (optional)**: Dig up the tubers in fall before frost, store like dahlias in a cool, dark, dry place, and replant next spring. Many people just buy new plants each year as they're inexpensive and easy. Sweet potato vine is excellent for adding quick color and trailing interest to pots, window boxes, or garden edges in Colorado. It thrives in the warmth of summer here but won't survive winter outdoors. If you describe the leaf color/shape from your photo (e.g., chartreuse 'Marguerite', dark 'Blackie', or tricolor), or tell me what specific advice you need (planting, problems, companions, etc.), I can give more tailored tips!