Ipomoea batatas 'Treasure Island Makatea'

vine

Treasure Island Sweet Potato

Ipomoea batatas 'Treasure Island Makatea'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Vine

Height

12 inches

Width

48 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

Annual in most zones, perennial in zones 9-11

Native To

Central and South America

Toxicity

Non-toxic

The Story

Plant Bio

A tender perennial vine, typically grown as an annual, featuring attractive foliage and producing edible tubers. Flowers are typically lavender but are often infrequent in cooler climates. Treasure Island 'Makatea' is known for its bright chartreuse, heart-shaped leaves and nutritious, light purple-skinned tubers with orange flesh.

Uses & Benefits:

Vining habit with lush, attractive foliage adds visual interest to gardens.

Produces nutritious, sweet tubers rich in vitamins A and C.

Supports beneficial insects and provides ground cover to reduce soil erosion.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

Select well-draining sandy or loamy soil for planting.
Tuck seed pieces or cuttings into soil about 2 inches deep.
Water thoroughly after planting to settle soil around roots.
Provide full sun for optimal growth and vibrant foliage.
Maintain consistent moisture, especially during hot months.
Mulch around plants to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.

Pro Tip

Use warm soil temperatures above 70°F to ensure healthy sprouting and growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged 🌱
Provide full sun for at least 6 hours daily
Apply balanced fertilizer monthly during the growing season
Support vine growth with trellises if needed
Mulch to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature

Don't

Overwater to prevent root rot ❌
Plant in shady areas, which reduce tuber development
Use chemical pesticides excessively—opt for organic controls instead
Neglect soil drainage, leading to waterlogging
Allow weeds to compete with the plant

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Harvest
Lift Store
Plant
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Vining groundcover with lush foliageVertical trellis for ornamental appealVanilla-scented border along garden paths

Companion Plants

Marigolds Sweet corn Bush beans Cabbage Peppers

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Treasure Island Sweet Potato questions

What zones can Treasure Island Sweet Potato grow in?

Treasure Island Sweet Potato is hardy in USDA Zones 9–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Treasure Island Sweet Potato deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Treasure Island Sweet Potato, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Treasure Island Sweet Potato bloom?

Treasure Island Sweet Potato typically blooms in late summer to fall through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Treasure Island Sweet Potato need full sun?

Treasure Island Sweet Potato does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Treasure Island Sweet Potato drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Treasure Island Sweet Potato handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.