Ipomoea is the largest genus in the family Convolvulaceae, with over 500 species. Most of these are called morning glories, but this can also refer to related genera. The genus occurs throughout the tropical and subtropical regions of the world. The genus is made up of annuals, perennials, evergreen shrubs, and trees. Many of the annuals and perennials are trailing or twining climbers. Although mainly grown for their funnel-shaped or tubular flowers, some are grown for their foliage. Ipomoea can be grown in the greenhouse or outdoors as annuals over a pergola or archway, or as groundcover.

Ipomoea obscura, commonly known as Wild Petunia or Obscure Morning Glory in English and Wildepatat in Afrikaans, is a South African indigenous perennial species of the genus Ipomoea, commonly known as morning glories. The seed of this plant is toxic if ingested. It is a prolific bloomer with the daintiest looking flowers which bloom in the morning and close by noon. The dried leaves of Ipomoea obscura contain an extract that can be used as a source of antioxidant and as an anti-inflammatory. This extract has also been found to inhibit the growth and proliferation of tumor cells.