Scarlet morning glory, Ipomoea hederifolia, is an annual vine in the Convolvulaceae, or morning-glory, family. Ipomoea coccinea and Quamoclit coccinea are two synonyms for this particular plant.
This annual vine typically climbs upward onto nearby vegetation by the use of tendrils. If allowed to grow near an existing tree or other support it will climb to well over twenty feet, however, if not supported it will grow along the ground forming a beautiful tangle of foliage and flowers.
Scarlet morning glory occurs mostly in disturbed sites but can also be found in hammocks, thickets and fields throughout Florida, southern Georgia, west Texas and north to Massachusetts. It also occurs in Mexico and the West Indies.
The leaf shape is variable, but most are heart-shaped with three deep lobes that are pointed at the tips (apices). Leaf sizes can vary from 1 to 4 inches in length. Some leaves may have toothed margins, while others may not. The leaves, stalks, and stems are generally smooth.