Ipomoea nil is the scientific name for the Japanese Morning Glory, a member of the family Convolvulaceae. Conventional wisdom has its origin in China, but the Japanese are credited with developing the tremendous variety of forms available. The history of the development of the large flowered strains is interesting and full of potential projects! I am particularly attracted to the mutant strains developed in the 19th century, many of which were lost in the beginning of the 20th century. This is a painting of an early feathered variety.
Red feathered
The various combinations of the mutations create very unique and interesting plants and flowers. Dr. Yoneda has created an interesting page that summarizes many of these genetic combinations of the Japanese Morning Glory with their Japanese names. Many hours of interesting exploration can be found here.
Here is a list of genes currently identified for the Japanese Morning Glory.
Arlan Ten Kley 